Malcolm Young, AC/DC co-founder and rhythm guitarist, died Saturday after suffering from dementia, his band announced in a statement. He was 64.
“It is with deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of Malcolm Young, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother,” the statement on the band’s website reads. “Malcolm had been suffering from Dementia for several years and passed away peacefully with his family by his bedside.”
“Renowned for his musical prowess Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many,” it continued. “From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans.”
Young and his brother Angus formed the Australian heavy metal band AC/DC in 1973 and two years later released their first album, “High Voltage,” followed by “Powerage” and “Highway to Hell.” Malcolm remained with the band until 2014, when he retired to receive treatment for dementia.
Shortly thereafter, The Sydney Morning Herald reported that Young was admitted to a nursing home for full-time care. A source close to the family told The Herald, “If you were in the room with [Malcolm Young] and walked out, then came back in one minute later, he wouldn’t remember who you are. He has a complete loss of short-term memory.”
Before Young’s retirement, AC/DC sold more than 200 million albums. In 2003, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Young is survived by his wife O’Linda, children Cara and Ross, son-in-law Josh, three grandchildren, sister and brother.