Some bands rock so hard that their music ignites more than just enthusiasm—it sets amplifiers on fire. Whether it’s a result of sheer sonic power or some twist of fate, AC/DC’s amps have been known to blaze with intensity.
In a legendary incident, Angus Young, the band’s iconic guitarist, experienced his amp spontaneously combusting while recording the solo for “Let There Be Rock” in 1977. This unexpected occurrence left a mark in rock history. But lightning struck twice when, during the recording of the 2014 album “Rock or Bust,” history repeated itself.
In Angus Young’s own words:
“Yes, it was on fire and I had to keep playing until the end, because my brother was in the control room, and yelling out ‘KEEP GOING!’ — so I had to keep going until the thing kind of went into meltdown. And on this album, Rock or Bust, we had the same thing… my amp just went on fire. And I didn’t even know! I thought it was a cigarette going. But Brendan was shouting out, ‘Ang, you’re on fire!'”
These incidents not only add to the lore of AC/DC’s electrifying performances but also showcase the band’s commitment to delivering their music, even in the face of literal flames.
