The legend of AC/DC began on a sweltering New Year’s Eve in 1973. Formed in Sydney, Australia, by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, the band played their first-ever gig at the Chequers nightclub. At the time, the lineup was different, and the sound was more glam-rock inspired, but the core energy was already there.
It was during these formative months that the band’s identity began to take shape. Angus Young adopted his sister’s suggestion to wear his school uniform on stage—a gimmick that would soon become one of the most famous images in rock history. Fueled by a relentless work ethic and a desire to play louder and harder than anyone else, they spent the early 70s touring the grueling Australian pub circuit. These early days forged the raw, gritty sound that would eventually conquer the world.