AC/DC is a legendary rock band that has been entertaining audiences for over four decades. One of their most iconic songs is “Thunderstruck,” which was released in 1990 as part of their album “The Razors Edge.” The song has become a classic rock anthem and is still popular among fans today. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of “Thunderstruck” and what makes it such a beloved song.
The Story Behind the Song
“Thunderstruck” was written by the band’s lead guitarist, Angus Young, and his brother, Malcolm Young. The song was inspired by a trip the band took to the United States, where they witnessed a lightning storm in Arizona. The brothers were fascinated by the power of the storm and decided to write a song about it.
The song’s opening riff is one of the most recognizable in rock music, and it was created by Angus Young while he was warming up before a recording session. He played the riff on his guitar, and the rest of the band immediately knew that it was something special. They decided to build the song around the riff, and “Thunderstruck” was born.
The Music
“Thunderstruck” is a high-energy rock song that features powerful guitar riffs and a driving beat. The song’s lyrics are about the power of lightning and thunder, and they are delivered with the trademark growl of lead singer Brian Johnson. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Johnson shouting “Thunderstruck!” over and over again.
One of the things that makes “Thunderstruck” so special is its use of dynamics. The song starts off with a quiet guitar riff and builds slowly until it explodes into the chorus. This creates a sense of tension and release that keeps the listener engaged throughout the song.
The Legacy of “Thunderstruck”
“Thunderstruck” has become one of AC/DC’s most beloved songs, and it is still played at concerts and sporting events around the world. The song’s popularity has also led to it being used in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
One of the most famous uses of “Thunderstruck” was in the 1996 movie “Space Jam,” where it was used during a basketball game between the Looney Tunes and a team of aliens. The song’s driving beat and energy perfectly captured the excitement of the game and helped to make the scene one of the most memorable in the movie.
Another notable use of “Thunderstruck” was during the opening ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. The song was played as athletes from around the world entered the stadium, and it helped to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for the games.
The Impact of “Thunderstruck”
“Thunderstruck” has had a significant impact on rock music and popular culture. The song’s powerful guitar riffs and driving beat have influenced countless musicians, and its use in movies and TV shows has helped to introduce it to new generations of fans.
The song’s popularity has also helped to cement AC/DC’s status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Their music has inspired millions of fans around the world, and their influence can be heard in the work of countless other artists.
Conclusion
“Thunderstruck” is a classic rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Its powerful guitar riffs, driving beat, and memorable chorus have made it one of AC/DC’s most beloved songs. The song’s impact on popular culture and rock music cannot be overstated, and it will continue to be a favorite among fans for generations to come.