Remembering Bon Scott on His Birthday

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Bon Scott in 1976 (Photo via the Bon Scott Estate; used with permission)

AC/DC’s iconic singer Bon Scott would have turned 75 years old on July 9, 2021. To mark the occasion, his family launched the first-ever official Bon Scott website which now serves as a destination for fans keen to discover more about the legendary singer and songwriter. Scott was born Ronald Belford Scott on July 9, 1946.

The Bon Scott Estate’s official announcement: “On the occasion of what would have been his 75th birthday, the Estate (Ron’s two brothers and his nephew) are proud to launch the new website and take this important step toward elevating Bon’s legend and tending to his legacy. Bon was a unique singer, songwriter and character that the world should never forget.”

Few rock singers were as unforgettable – and have proved as enduring – as Scott. As the frontman of AC/DC from 1974 until his tragic passing at the age of 33 in 1980, his “rock n’ roll pirate persona,” street poet lyrics, striking image (one of the first rockers to proudly sport multiple tattoos), and most importantly his incredible voice, have made him a legend.

The official website helps keep Scott’s memory alive for new and old fans alike, with tributes from his AC/DC bandmates and renowned rockers like Steve Perry and Rob Halford.

“Fond memories of our “lightning flash in the middle” Bon, who would be 75 today,” wrote Angus Young in 2021.

Fans are able to leave testimonials and purchase newly available official merchandise.

Scott’s vocals were featured in several pre-AC/DC bands, including Fraternity, the Valentines, and the Spektors.

Watch Scott perform a classic from The Band, with Fraternity

When AC/DC parted ways with singer Dave Evans, a mutual friend suggested Scott to George Young, who wondered if he was too much older than the rest of the young new band and not a good vocal fit. The combination proved ideal and soon after, the classic rock band recorded their debut album. By 1979 and their sixth album, Highway To Hell, AC/DC had broken through internationally as a premier hard rock band.

The quality of the songs of AC/DC’s “Bon-era” ultimately serve as his greatest legacy – “Highway to Hell,” “Sin City,” “Whole Lotta Rosie,” “Let There Be Rock,” “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” “TNT,” and “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll),” among them.

Classic Rock Magazine declared Scott “The Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Front Man of All Time” in 2004, beating out the lofty likes of Freddie Mercury and Robert Plant.

Watch Scott interviewed in 1979