AC/DC, the legendary Australian rock band that has been shaking the foundations of the music world for over four decades, needs no introduction. With their electrifying energy and hard-hitting anthems, they have become one of the most iconic and influential acts in the history of rock and roll. And what better way to pay tribute to their monumental legacy than by diving deep into their extensive discography?
Now let’s take a wild ride through the AC/DC catalog, exploring their albums that have defined their sound and left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. From the early days of their self-titled debut album “High Voltage” to the recent powerhouse release “POWER UP,” each album represents a chapter in the band’s journey and showcases their unique brand of high-voltage rock.
Prepare to be thunderstruck by the gritty and raucous sounds of albums like “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” and “Let There Be Rock.” Feel the raw power of classics such as “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black,” which have cemented their place in music history as timeless rock anthems.
AC/DC’s prowess extends beyond their studio albums, as evidenced by their electrifying live performances captured on albums like “If You Want Blood You’ve Got It (Live)” and “Live at River Plate.” These records showcase the band’s unparalleled ability to captivate audiences with their relentless energy and electrifying stage presence.
So let’s get into it. From the ear-splitting riffs of “Powerage” to the thunderous beats of “Ballbreaker,” and from the headbanging rhythms of “Stiff Upper Lip” to the hard-hitting melodies of “Rock or Bust,” here is the AC/DC Album: Top 21 List. Prepare to be blown away as we celebrate the music that has made AC/DC an unstoppable force in the world of rock music.
21. High Voltage ( May 1976 )
“High Voltage” is the electrifying debut album from the Australian rock legends, AC/DC. Bursting onto the scene in 1976, this album solidified AC/DC’s status as the true rock ‘n’ roll powerhouse they are known as today. With the iconic tracks like “T.N.T.” and “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll),” “High Voltage” set the stage for AC/DC’s signature high-energy sound. The raw and blistering guitar work of Angus Young combined with the gritty vocals of Bon Scott created a sound that was undeniably rebellious and undeniably rock. This album served as a launching pad for AC/DC’s global domination and solidified their place as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Brace yourself for the shock of “High Voltage” and get ready to rock!
20. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap ( Sep 1976 )
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” released on September 20, 1976, is an absolute powerhouse of an album that solidified AC/DC’s status as iconic rock gods. From the moment the sinister guitar riff of the title track kicks in, you know you’re in for a wild ride. This album is a masterclass in hard rock, with Bon Scott’s gritty vocals and Angus Young’s electrifying guitar work leading the charge. Songs like “Problem Child” and “Big Balls” showcase the band’s irreverent humor, while tracks like “Ride On” and “Ain’t No Fun (Waiting Round to Be a Millionaire)” showcase their more introspective side. With its raw energy, infectious hooks, and rebellious spirit, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a timeless classic that has left a lasting impact on rock music.
19. Let There Be Rock ( Mar 1977 )
Released in 1977, AC/DC’s “Let There Be Rock” album is a powerful force to be reckoned with in the realm of rock music. Packed with raw energy and hard-hitting riffs, this album solidified AC/DC’s status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. From the electrifying title track “Let There Be Rock” to the anthemic “Whole Lotta Rosie,” each song on this album is a testament to the band’s signature sound. With the iconic guitar work of Angus Young and the commanding vocals of Bon Scott, “Let There Be Rock” encapsulates the essence of AC/DC’s rebellious spirit. The album’s relentless pace and gritty production evoke a sense of unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll. It’s no wonder that this album has become a fan favorite, with its timeless tracks fueling the fire at countless concerts and parties. “Let There Be Rock” is a testament to AC/DC’s ability to create music that resonates with fans and stands the test of time. It’s a must-listen for any rock enthusiast looking to experience the sheer power and raw emotion that AC/DC brings to the table.
18. Powerage ( May 1978 )
Let’s bring the power with AC/DC’s iconic album “Powerage”! Released in 1978, this hard-hitting masterpiece delivered a raw and unapologetic sound that solidified AC/DC’s status as rock legends. From the opening track “Rock ‘n’ Roll Damnation” to the gritty blues-infused “Down Payment Blues,” “Powerage” is a relentless showcase of the band’s electrifying energy. Angus and Malcolm Young’s dynamic guitar riffs, Bon Scott’s gritty vocals, and the thunderous rhythm section of Cliff Williams and Phil Rudd created a sonic force that still resonates today. Standout tracks like “Riff Raff,” “Sin City,” and the anthemic “Highway to Hell” served as a blueprint for generations of hard rockers to come. “Powerage” exemplifies AC/DC’s ability to blend raw power with irresistible hooks, making it an absolute essential in any rock lover’s collection.
17. If You Want Blood You’ve Got It (Live) ( Oct 1978 )
AC/DC’s “If You Want Blood You’ve Got It (Live)” is a raw and electrifying testament to the band’s live prowess. Released on October 13, 1978, this album captures the sheer energy and intensity of their performances. From the moment the opening chords of “Riff Raff” kick in, you know you’re in for a wild ride. The chemistry between Angus Young’s blistering guitar solos and Bon Scott’s gritty vocals is palpable on tracks like “High Voltage” and “Let There Be Rock.” What sets this album apart is its unapologetic rawness. The crowd’s thunderous cheers and Bon Scott’s raucous banter with the audience add an authentic live atmosphere, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the mayhem. While it may not have the glossy production of their studio albums, “If You Want Blood You’ve Got It (Live)” showcases AC/DC at their most unfiltered and adrenaline-fueled. It’s a must-have for any fan looking to experience the band’s ferocious live energy.
16. Highway to Hell ( Jul 1979 )
“Highway to Hell” is the iconic sixth studio album by AC/DC, released in 1979. This album is an absolute powerhouse in rock history, featuring some of the band’s most electrifying tracks. From the title track, with its unmistakable guitar riff and catchy chorus, to the rebellious anthem “Girls Got Rhythm,” every song on this record is an adrenaline-fueled blast. With Bon Scott’s fierce vocals and the Young brothers’ relentless guitar work, AC/DC delivered a sonic masterpiece. This album solidified AC/DC as one of the biggest rock bands of all time, and it paved the way for their future success. The energy and grit captured in “Highway to Hell” continue to resonate with new generations of rock fans. It’s an album that encapsulates the spirit of the band and earned its rightful place as a timeless classic in the pantheon of rock music.
15. Back In Black ( Jul 1980 )
“Back In Black,” released on July 25, 1980, is not just an album, but a monumental rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece that elevated AC/DC to legendary status. This record is a testament to the band’s resilience and determination following the tragic loss of lead singer Bon Scott. With the arrival of Brian Johnson, AC/DC delivered a sonic spectacle that shook the foundations of rock music. From the explosive opening of “Hells Bells” to the rebellious anthem of “You Shook Me All Night Long,” this album is a nonstop riff-fest, filled with unapologetic energy and infectious hooks. Each track is a classic in its own right, showcasing the band’s signature sound and Johnson’s gritty vocals. “Back In Black” remains an essential part of any rock aficionado’s collection, standing as a timeless testament to the power of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll.
14. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) ( Nov 1981 )
Alright, rockers, get ready to salute because we’re diving into AC/DC’s iconic album “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)”! Released on November 23, 1981, this electrifying masterpiece marked a pivotal moment in the band’s career. Building on the massive success of their previous album “Back in Black,” AC/DC continued to unleash their signature hard rock sound and infectious energy. From the explosive title track, which has become a timeless anthem, to the gritty riffs of “Let’s Get It Up” and the catchy hooks of “Inject the Venom,” this album delivered one hard-hitting rock anthem after another. It’s no wonder that “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” solidified AC/DC’s status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Though it received mixed reviews from critics, the album resonated deeply with fans, climbing the charts and ultimately reaching the number one spot in the US. Its bold sound and rebellious spirit continue to captivate generations of rock enthusiasts, illustrating the enduring impact and influence of AC/DC. So, crank up the volume, air guitar in hand, and let the thunderous rock ‘n’ roll of “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” ignite your soul. It’s an electrifying ride you won’t want to miss!
13. Flick of the Switch ( Aug 1983 )
“Flick of the Switch” is AC/DC’s eighth studio album, released in 1983. It marked a transition period for the band, as original drummer Phil Rudd was replaced by Simon Wright. Despite the lineup change, this album still delivered the hard-hitting, blues-infused rock that AC/DC is known for. With tracks like “Rising Power,” “Nervous Shakedown,” and the title track, “Flick of the Switch” showcased the band’s ability to create catchy, no-nonsense rock anthems. The raw energy and gritty guitar riffs by Angus Young combined with Brian Johnson’s signature raspy vocals made this album a fan favorite. While it may not have reached the commercial success of previous albums, “Flick of the Switch” remains a testament to AC/DC’s enduring sound and their ability to keep rocking against all odds.
12. Fly On the Wall ( Jun 1985 )
AC/DC’s album “Fly On the Wall” is a gritty and raw rock ‘n’ roll explosion that came roaring out of the gates in 1985. Released during a period of transition for the band, this album showcased their undying passion and their ability to create hard-hitting anthems. With Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, “Fly On the Wall” delivered a collection of memorable tracks that packed a punch. From the rebellious anthem “Shake Your Foundations” to the driving energy of “Sink the Pink,” this album exuded a sense of rebelliousness and non-stop energy. While “Fly On the Wall” may not be AC/DC’s most commercially successful or critically acclaimed album, it still holds a special place in their discography. It captures the band’s signature sound and rebellious spirit, making it a must-listen for fans of hard rock. With its raw production and unapologetic attitude, “Fly On the Wall” is a testament to AC/DC’s enduring legacy.
11. Who Made Who ( May 1986 )
Released in 1986, “Who Made Who” is a killer album by the iconic rock band AC/DC. Serving as the soundtrack for Stephen King’s film “Maximum Overdrive,” this album not only rocked the charts but also the theaters. Packed with classic AC/DC hits like “You Shook Me All Night Long,” “Sink the Pink,” and “Hells Bells,” “Who Made Who” showcases the band’s signature hard-hitting sound and electrifying energy. The album perfectly captures the essence of AC/DC’s high-voltage rock ‘n’ roll, leaving fans headbanging and craving for more. With its catchy hooks, thunderous guitar riffs, and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, “Who Made Who” solidified AC/DC’s status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. It’s a timeless gem that continues to resonate with generations of rock enthusiasts.
10. Blow Up Your Video ( Feb 1988 )
AC/DC’s “Blow Up Your Video,” released on February 1, 1988, is a true powerhouse of an album that showcases the band’s signature hard rock sound. Produced by Harry Vanda and George Young, this record perfectly captures the raw energy and grit that we’ve come to love from AC/DC. From the pounding drums to the blistering guitar riffs, “Blow Up Your Video” delivers hard-hitting tracks that will get you headbanging in no time. The album kicks off with the anthemic “Heatseeker,” a classic AC/DC song with a killer guitar intro that sets the tone for what’s to come. Other standout tracks include the catchy “That’s the Way I Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll” and the bluesy groove of “Ruff Stuff.” While “Blow Up Your Video” may not receive as much recognition as some of AC/DC’s earlier albums, it’s a hidden gem that shouldn’t be overlooked. This album showcases the band’s ability to consistently produce solid rock music that stands the test of time. So, crank up the volume and let AC/DC blow up your speakers with this explosive record. It’s a guaranteed good time.
9. The Razors Edge ( Sep 1990 )
“The Razors Edge” by AC/DC, released in 1990, is a powerhouse of an album that solidified the band’s status as one of the greatest rock acts of all time. Packed with thunderous riffs and infectious hooks, this record showcases the raw energy and rebellious spirit that AC/DC is known for. From the opening track “Thunderstruck,” with its iconic guitar riff that instantly grabs your attention, to the anthemic “Moneytalks” and the hard-hitting “Fire Your Guns,” this album delivers hard rock at its finest. The driving rhythm section of Cliff Williams on bass and Phil Rudd on drums provides a solid foundation for Angus Young’s blistering guitar solos and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals. “The Razors Edge” is an album that captures the essence of AC/DC’s signature sound, combining bluesy influences with a no-frills attitude. It perfectly showcases their ability to create unforgettable, head-banging classics that have stood the test of time. With its timeless tracks and infectious energy, “The Razors Edge” remains a testament to AC/DC’s lasting impact on the world of rock music.
8. Live ( Oct 1992 )
AC/DC’s “Live” album, released on October 27, 1992, stands as a testament to the band’s electrifying live performances. This iconic record captures the raw energy and power that AC/DC is known for, delivering a high-voltage experience from start to finish. With legendary tracks like “Highway to Hell,” “Thunderstruck,” and “Back in Black,” “Live” showcases the band’s ability to captivate audiences and pump up the crowd like no other. The album perfectly captures the essence of an AC/DC concert, with Angus Young’s blistering guitar solos, Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, and the tight rhythm section of Malcolm Young, Cliff Williams, and Chris Slade. “Live” is a must-have for any rock enthusiast, as it encapsulates the sheer brilliance and enduring impact of AC/DC’s live performances.
7. Live (Collector’s Edition) ( Oct 1992 )
Oh, get ready to rock and roll all night long with AC/DC’s “Live (Collector’s Edition)” album, released on October 27, 1992. This timeless live record captures the raw energy and power that AC/DC brings to the stage. With their thunderous guitars, wailing vocals, and pounding rhythms, AC/DC is at their absolute best in a live setting. Featuring crowd favorites like “Back in Black,” “Highway to Hell,” and “Thunderstruck,” this album showcases the band’s electrifying live performances and their incredible ability to get audiences on their feet. The solos are scorching, the riffs are infectious, and the entire album oozes with the sweat and adrenaline of a true rock concert. “Live (Collector’s Edition)” is a must-have for any AC/DC fan or anyone who wants to experience the heart-pounding energy of one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Plug in, turn up the volume, and let AC/DC take you on a wild ride through rock and roll history. Get ready to feel the power!
6. Ballbreaker ( Sep 1995 )
“Ballbreaker,” released in 1995, marked AC/DC’s triumphant return to the rock scene after a five-year hiatus. This hard-hitting album showcased the band’s signature sound, blending bluesy riffs, thunderous drums, and gritty vocals with a fresh energy. With tracks like “Hard as a Rock” and “Hail Caesar,” AC/DC proved they hadn’t lost their touch, delivering an onslaught of infectious hooks and anthemic choruses that left fans headbanging and screaming for more. Produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, “Ballbreaker” captured the essence of AC/DC’s raw power and tight musicianship. The album’s stripped-down production and relentless guitar solos showcased the band’s commitment to their no-frills, no-apologies rock ‘n’ roll attitude. From the infectious groove of “Boogie Man” to the blistering intensity of “Cover You in Oil,” “Ballbreaker” was a sonic assault that cemented AC/DC’s status as champions of the genre. While “Ballbreaker” may not have enjoyed the same commercial success as some of their earlier albums, it remains a testament to AC/DC’s resilience and dedication to their hard-rock roots. With its unapologetic swagger and thunderous energy, “Ballbreaker” is a must-listen for any fan of true rock ‘n’ roll.
5. Stiff Upper Lip ( Feb 2000 )
“Stiff Upper Lip” is the classic 2000 release from the Australian rock legends, AC/DC. This album brought the thunderous sound AC/DC is known for, with gritty guitar riffs, thundering drums, and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals. It’s a testament to the band’s enduring talent and ability to deliver hard-hitting rock anthems. Tracks like the title track “Stiff Upper Lip” and the infectious “Meltdown” showcase the band’s signature sound, while songs like “Safe in New York City” and “Can’t Stand Still” prove that AC/DC still had fresh ideas up their sleeves. Although “Stiff Upper Lip” didn’t quite reach the soaring heights of their iconic albums like “Back in Black,” it’s still a standout record in their discography. It’s an album that will have you cranking up the volume and headbanging along, and is a must-listen for any AC/DC fan.
4. Black Ice ( Oct 2008 )
“Black Ice,” released in 2008, marked a triumphant return for the legendary rockers AC/DC. With their trademark blues-infused hard rock sound, the album proved that after four decades, this band still had the power to blow us away. From the thunderous opening of “Rock ‘N Roll Train” to the contagious hooks of “Big Jack,” this album showcased AC/DC’s ability to deliver anthemic, stadium-sized rock tracks. The guitar work of brothers Angus and Malcolm Young was as electrifying as ever, while Brian Johnson’s distinctive vocals soared above the relentless rhythm section. Standout tracks like “War Machine” and “Black Ice” demonstrated the band’s knack for crafting infectious, head-banging tunes that left a lasting impression. “Black Ice” assured us that AC/DC’s rock ‘n’ roll spirit was as alive and potent as ever.
3. Live at River Plate ( Nov 2012 )
“Live at River Plate” is a wild ride from start to finish, capturing AC/DC’s electrifying performance in Buenos Aires. Released in 2012, this album is an explosive testament to the band’s unparalleled ability to command a massive stadium crowd. With the iconic Angus Young leading the charge on guitar, and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, the energy is palpable from the first chord. From the crowd-pleasing classics like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell,” to the thunderous riffs of “Thunderstruck,” this live album is a sonic assault that showcases AC/DC at their best. With a roaring crowd acting as a sixth member of the band, “Live at River Plate” immortalizes the raw power and unbridled passion that has made AC/DC an enduring force in rock ‘n’ roll.
2. Rock or Bust ( Nov 2014 )
AC/DC’s “Rock or Bust” was the seventeenth studio album that hit the scene like a thunderbolt in 2014. This album served as a testament to the band’s resilience and unyielding spirit, proving that even after more than four decades in the industry, they could still deliver a sonic punch. From the electrifying title track to the relentless groove of “Play Ball,” AC/DC showcased their signature sound in full force. Despite the absence of founding member Malcolm Young, the band’s essence remained intact, with Angus Young’s blistering riffs leading the charge. “Rock or Bust” may not have reached the heights of their classic albums, but it was a solid effort that reminded us all why AC/DC are the kings of hard rock.
1. POWER UP ( Nov 2020 )
AC/DC unleashed their electrifying energy once again with the release of their 2020 masterpiece, “POWER UP.” This album stands as a testament to their timeless rock ‘n’ roll spirit and everlasting influence. Bursting with their signature hard-hitting riffs, thunderous drums, and Brian Johnson’s unmistakable vocals, “POWER UP” reminds us why AC/DC remains a powerhouse in the genre. From the ferocious opening track “Realize” to the anthemic “Shot in the Dark,” the album delivers one sonic punch after another, leaving no room for rest. Powerhouse tracks like “Kick You When You’re Down” and “Demon Fire” showcase the band’s ability to craft infectious hooks that stick like glue in your head. Produced by Brendan O’Brien, “POWER UP” is a glorious return to form, embodying the raw essence that made AC/DC legends. It’s a true celebration of their legacy and a reminder that their electric thunder still shakes the rock ‘n’ roll foundation to its core. Long live AC/DC!
We’ve also compiled the Top 50 AC/DC Songs from all these albums if you don’t have time to listen to all the albums.
