AC/DC guitarist Malcolm Young dead at 64

[Photo by: AC/DC/Facebook]

Malcolm Young, guitarist and founding member of AC/DC, has died at the age of 64, his family confirmed in a statement, Pitchfork reports. 

“Renowned for his musical prowess, Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many,” they write. “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.”

A specific cause of death has not been revealed, but the family references his dementia, saying he “passed away peacefully on Saturday with his family by his bedside,” Pitchfork reports.

The band shared a heartfelt a message on Facebook, sharing their sadness over the loss of the “driving force behind the band.”

Read their message in full below:

Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young.

Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC.
With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band.
As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man.
He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted.
He took great pride in all that he endeavored.
His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed.

Malcolm and Angus Young's family moved from Glasgow, Scotland to Sydney, Australia, where they ended up forming AC/DC. Young was in AC/DC from 1973 until retiring permanently in 2014, due to health reasons.

The band have become one of the biggest rock acts in history, with hits like “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” “Thunderstruck,” “T.N.T.,” “You Shook Me All Night Long” and more. The band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

“Thunderstruck”

AP's thoughts are with Young's family and loved ones at this time.