Bon Scott was an Australian singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band AC/DC. Born Ronald Belford Scott on July 9, 1946, in Kirriemuir, Angus, Scotland, he became a major figure in rock music before his untimely death in 1980.
Personal and Family Life
Bon Scott’s family moved to Australia in 1952 when he was just a child. He had a rebellious spirit, leading him to leave school at 15. He married Irene Thornton in 1972, but the couple divorced in 1978. His passion for music started early, and he first gained attention as the drummer and vocalist for various bands before joining AC/DC.
Musical Career
Scott began his music career with a band called The Valentines, achieving local fame, but the band’s reputation suffered due to legal troubles. After a brief period with the band Fraternity, Scott joined AC/DC in 1974 as the lead singer. His distinctive raspy voice and energetic stage presence helped propel the band to stardom, culminating in their success with the album “Highway to Hell.” His time with AC/DC is often regarded as a golden era for the band.
Death and Legacy
Tragically, Bon Scott died on February 19, 1980, due to asphyxiation after a night of heavy drinking. He was found in a car outside a friend’s flat and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Scott’s legacy lives on, influencing countless artists and solidifying his place in rock history, with a memorial in Fremantle Cemetery, Australia.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
AC/DC: Let There Be Rock | 1980-09-01 | Vocals |
Rock Goes To College: AC/DC | 1978-11-10 | Himself |
AC/DC: Live At The Apollo, Glasgow | 1978-04-30 | Self – Vocals |
AC/DC: Hells Highway | 2008-06-23 | Himself |
AC/DC: Live ’77 At The Hippodrome Golders Green London | 2003-01-22 | Vocals |
AC/DC: Family Jewels | 2005-03-18 | |
AC/DC: Dirty Deeds | 2012-04-06 | Archive Footage |
AC/DC: The Bon Scott Years | 2005-12-13 | Himself |
AC/DC: Highway to Hell – Classic Album Under Review | 2008-01-22 | Self |
AC/DC: Lightning Over Japan | 1981-05-02 | Lead Vocals |