When people talk about great guitarists, they often think about speed, complex solos, and technical skill. But Angus Young, the legendary guitarist of AC/DC, has always believed that simplicity is the real power in rock music. His own playing style proves that idea. Songs like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black” are built on simple riffs, yet they are some of the most famous and loved guitar parts in music history.
Angus Young’s guitar style is raw, energetic, and direct. His riffs are easy to recognize and easy to play, which is exactly why they have been copied by so many guitar players around the world. Walk into almost any practice room or garage band rehearsal, and chances are someone is trying to play an AC/DC riff. That kind of influence doesn’t come from being flashy — it comes from being effective.
Even though Angus is known for his wild stage presence and incredible control of the guitar, he has always admired players who could do more with less. One guitarist he has spoken highly of is Pete Townshend from The Who. According to Angus, Townshend had a rare ability to take something very simple — sometimes just one chord or even one string — and turn it into something powerful and exciting.
Angus once explained that Pete Townshend could make basic playing come alive in a way that many technically skilled guitarists could not. For him, that was far more interesting than watching someone play complicated patterns. He believed that while there are many great guitar players in the world, too much technical skill can sometimes make music feel boring or lifeless.
This is why Angus called Pete Townshend’s style one of the most imitated in the world. Townshend’s aggressive rhythm playing, big power chords, and fearless attitude inspired generations of musicians. His approach showed that guitar playing wasn’t just about notes — it was about energy, emotion, and impact.
Angus also compared Townshend to other famous guitarists like Eric Clapton. While he respected Clapton’s talent, Angus felt that Clapton’s playing became too technical over time. In Angus’s view, rock music should feel dangerous and alive, not overly polished or complicated.
Interestingly, the respect between Angus Young and Pete Townshend went both ways. In 1979, AC/DC toured Europe as the opening band for The Who. After seeing AC/DC perform, Townshend himself was impressed by their power and intensity. It was a moment where two generations of rock guitarists recognized something special in each other.
In the end, Angus Young’s message is clear and inspiring: great guitar playing doesn’t have to be complicated. What matters most is feel, honesty, and connection. Whether it’s Pete Townshend smashing power chords or Angus Young tearing across the stage in his schoolboy outfit, rock music lives in simplicity done with passion.
That’s why these guitarists are still remembered today — not for how many notes they played, but for how deeply their music made people feel. 🎸