Shock for AC/DC fans!
The rock band’s original drummer, Colin Burgess, has died aged 77. The band announced this on Saturday. She praised Burgess as a “very esteemed” musician.
The bandmates: “We are very sad about the passing of Colin Burgess. Happy memories, rock in peace, Colin.”
The cause of death was not revealed. Fans shared their condolences in the comments.
▶︎ One wrote: “Very sad news because I love rock music, especially from Australia, and he was part of a generation of great musicians who launched the music industry in Australia. My condolences to his family and friends.”
▶︎ Others said: “I’m very sad about Colin’s passing, may he rest in peace!” and “Rest in peace Colin, you did a lot for young bands.”
The original members of the band were singer Dave Evans (70), bassist Larry Van Kriedt (69), drummer Burgess, lead guitarist Angus Young (68) and guitarist Malcolm Young (†64).
The original band line-up (from left): Larry Van Kriedt, Colin Burgess, Malcolm Young, Dave Evans and Angus Young
Only one of the original band remains: Angus Young. The current line-up of AC/DC consists of Young, drummer Phil Rudd (69), bassist Cliff Williams (74), singer Brian Johnson (76) and guitarist Stevie Young (67, Angus’ nephew).
Burgess joined the band in 1973 but was fired a year later after being accused of being drunk on stage.
The drummer was replaced by a number of musicians before Rudd joined the band in 1975. Burgess briefly returned to AC/DC in 1975, filling in temporarily when Rudd was sidelined for a few weeks with a hand injury.
Burgess was also the drummer for the Masters Apprentices from 1968 to 1972. He later performed with his brother Denny as “The Burgess Brothers” before they changed their name to “Burgess Burgess” in 2014.
AC/DC’s most successful song worldwide: “Highway to Hell”. The song peaked at number 17 in the United States and number 8 in the United Kingdom.
Successful albums included “Back in Black” and “For Those About to Rock We Salute You”. AC/DC has sold more than 200 million records worldwide and is considered one of the most influential rock bands of all time.