I watched an episode of "Behind the Music" several years ago that featured AC/DC. As a classical musician I only pay a little attention to popular music and groups. But there are some that are so famous that you can't escape knowing something about them. I had heard their most famous songs, of course, but only thought of them as raspy vocals and Angus Young's prancing around the stage dressed in a school boys uniform. I decided that this would be a learning moment for me.
A lot of their history is well known to their fans and I'm not going to insult them by suddenly pretending to be one. I found their story to be a compelling one, though. But Malcolm Young is the one who stuck out the most for me. He wasn't just the other guitarist in the band. The one hanging out in the back row. The lead guitarist's brother *wink, wink*.
Malcolm Young was a serious musician. He co-wrote the songs and played a mean rhythm guitar. As a guitarist and teacher I assure you that is not as easy as it looks. Rhythm guitar, in conjunction with the drums and bass, can set the mood for the song. "Make or break" is the phrase that comes to mind. I have watched some of their videos several times and found myself watching Malcolm more than the others.
Malcolm's retirement due to dementia three years ago and subsequent death a couple days ago reminds me that rock 'n roll is dying through attrition. There are no new rock bands setting the world on fire. Pop and new country borrow from rock but hip-hop has replaced it with the young listeners. Every generation has it's own style and Malcolm Young represented the best of his.
If future tribute bands decide to pay homage to AC/DC they will, of course, start with the vocals and the lead guitar. But if they want to do it right they will need to pay particular attention to Malcolm's guitar playing. That's where it starts. Sadly, that may also be where it ends.
My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and fans for their loss.