Legendary rock band AC/DC announced the death of co-founder and guitarist Malcolm Young on Saturday. He was 64.
"With enormous dedication and commitment, he was the driving force behind the band," reads a statement from his younger brother and bandmate Angus. "As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary, he was a perfectionist and a unique man."
The Australian rocker who played rhythm guitar had been suffering from dementia since 2014, leading him to retire permanently. He also had a heart condition that required a pacemaker and survived lung cancer.
He formed the band in 1973 with Angus, who plays lead guitar and is the band's vocalist.
Malcolm is survived by his wife, O'Linda, two children and three grandchildren. The band said he died peacefully with his family by his bedside.
"As his brother, it is hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special," Angus said. "He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever.
"Malcolm, job well done."
