BACK IN BLACK LYRICS - AC/DC | BACK IN BLACK

Back in Black is the thunderous title track by Australian rock band AC/DC — the first song the band recorded with new frontman Brian Johnson after the death of Bon Scott in February 1980. Built on one of the most recognisable opening guitar riffs in rock history (Angus and Malcolm Young), it was released as a US single in December 1980, peaked at No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its official 4K video crossed 1 billion YouTube views in February 2024. The song anchors an album that has sold an estimated 50 million copies — the second-best-selling album ever. For more rock classics, see Bohemian Rhapsody lyrics — Queen and Hotel California lyrics — Eagles here on LatestLyrics.xyz.

Song Credits

Song: Back in Black
Singer: AC/DC (lead vocals by Brian Johnson)
Lyrics: Brian Johnson
Music: Angus Young, Malcolm Young
Album: Back in Black
Music Label: Albert Productions / Atlantic Records
Release Date: 25 July 1980 (album); US single December 1980

Back in Black Lyrics

The full lyrics of "Back in Black" will be added here once the copyright review lifts. Please check back later.

Watch the Official Video

FAQ

Who wrote "Back in Black"?
The lyrics were written by Brian Johnson with music by Angus and Malcolm Young; the songwriting is officially credited to all three. It was Johnson's first recording as AC/DC's new frontman.

What is "Back in Black" about?
It was written in the weeks after Bon Scott's death as his tribute, but the band insisted it be a celebration rather than a sad song — a defiant statement of survival and return.

How successful was "Back in Black"?
The single reached No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981; the parent album has sold an estimated 50 million copies worldwide, making it the second-best-selling album in music history.

How popular is the official video?
AC/DC's official 4K video for "Back in Black" passed 1 billion views on YouTube in February 2024, only the band's second video to reach the milestone.

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