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Angus Young's Musical Influences and Aspirations

2/15/2026, 11:44:38 AM

The Song That Inspires Angus Young

Angus Young, the iconic guitarist of AC/DC, has co-written numerous influential rock songs over his five-decade career. Despite his extensive discography, Young has expressed a particular admiration for "You Really Got Me," a 1964 track by The Kinks. He regards this song as a powerful piece that encapsulates a significant amount of energy within a short duration. In an interview with Triple M, Young reflected on the musical landscape of the 1960s, noting, “We wanted as much punch into each track as we done,” highlighting his desire for brevity and impact in songwriting.

The Kinks' Influence on Rock Music

"You Really Got Me," written by Ray Davies and featuring a notable riff by his brother Dave Davies, is often credited with reshaping the rock genre and laying the groundwork for heavy metal music. Young's admiration for The Kinks is rooted in their ability to innovate and influence the rock scene, as he acknowledged their role in opening up new possibilities within the genre. This admiration is further emphasized by Young's reflections on sibling dynamics in bands, contrasting his relationship with his brother Malcolm Young to that of Ray and Dave Davies of The Kinks.

Sibling Dynamics in Rock Bands

In discussing the dynamics of brother-led bands, Angus Young noted that while sibling groups often face tensions, he and Malcolm maintained a strong bond devoid of significant conflicts. He remarked, “Musically, I’m the left hand and he’s the right hand. Add the two together, we play as one.” This collaboration has been a hallmark of AC/DC's success, setting them apart from other sibling bands like Oasis, which Young humorously dismissed in an interview.

Brian Johnson, AC/DC's lead singer, echoed this sentiment, describing the unspoken communication between the Young brothers and their older brother and producer, George Young. This deep familial connection has allowed AC/DC to thrive creatively, with both Angus and Malcolm providing constructive feedback on each other's ideas during the songwriting process.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Collaboration

Angus Young's reflections on songwriting reveal a deep respect for musical influences and the collaborative spirit that has defined his career. His acknowledgment of "You Really Got Me" as a song he wished he had written underscores the impact of The Kinks on his artistic journey. As he continues to create music, the interplay between his ideas and those of Malcolm remains a cornerstone of AC/DC's enduring legacy.