You Shook Me All Night Long

The song is a masterclass in 'Big Chord' rock harmony. While the functional harmony is basic (I-IV-V), the distinction comes from Malcolm Young's specific chord voicings: using open G major, Cadd9 (keeping the high G and D notes ringing), and a D major with an open A string (D/A) or heavy fifths. The 'rock' feel is generated by the tension between the Major key harmony and Brian Johnson's vocal melodies which lean into the minor pentatonic/blues scale, creating a characteristic cross-modal clash.

Following the death of original lead singer Bon Scott in February 1980, AC/DC recruited Brian Johnson. The band moved to the Bahamas to write and record the album 'Back in Black'. Johnson was tasked with writing the lyrics, and he aimed to maintain the band's signature double-entendre style. He wrote the lyrics for this song quickly, focusing on the high-energy theme of a memorable night with a woman.

As the debut single featuring Brian Johnson, this track propelled the 'Back in Black' album to legendary status following the tragic loss of Bon Scott. Its blend of infectious riffs and stadium-sized energy established it as a permanent fixture in rock history and pop culture.