AC/DC mourn the loss of a founding member
Drummer Colin Burgess has died at the age of 77
AC/DC at one of their performances.
© imago/Eibner Europe
Colin Burgess, former AC/DC drummer, has died at the age of 77. The band shared their sadness on social media.
Former AC/DC drummer Colin Burgess (1946-2023) has died at the age of 77. The group confirmed the former band member’s death on Saturday on social media. AC/DC says: “It is very sad to hear of the death of Colin Burgess. He was our first drummer and a very respected musician.” The musicians continued: “Lovely memories, Rock in Peace, Colin.” No further details were disclosed.
Numerous fans also mourned Burgess in the comments on the band’s post and thanked him in emotional messages for his contribution to the Australian rock group’s success. Among other things, it says: “Your thunderous beats paved the way for future generations of rockers.” Another user wrote: “You will always be remembered as the heartbeat of AC/DC’s early years.”
Colin Burgess was a founding member of AC/DC
AC/DC was formed in Sydney, Australia in 1973. Burgess was part of the original line-up – along with brothers Malcolm Young (1953-2017) and Angus Young (68), bassist Larry Van Kriedt (69) and lead singer Dave Evans (70). Burgess was kicked out of the band just a few months later in 1974, allegedly for being drunk on stage. However, he is said to have defended himself against the allegations. Two years later the group released their debut album “High Voltage”. According to media reports, Burgess was featured on the band’s debut single, “Can I Sit Next to You, Girl.”
After his departure, the drummer was replaced by Phil Rudd (69), but reunited with the band in 1975 to play a handful of shows. Apparently Rudd had suffered a hand injury and was unable to perform.
Before joining AC/DC, Burgess played for the Australian band The Masters Apprentices, who scored several hits in the 1960s and early 1970s. He later performed with the groups His Majesty, Good Time Charlie and Dead Singer Band.