Colin Burgess, the original drummer for legendary heavy metal band AC/DC, has passed away. The news was announced on the band’s official Facebook page, and fans around the world are mourning the loss of this respected musician.
In a statement shared on Friday night, AC/DC wrote, “Very sad to hear of the passing of Colin Burgess. He was our first drummer and a very respected musician. Happy memories, rock in peace Colin.” The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Burgess joined AC/DC in 1973, becoming a member alongside sibling guitarists Angus and Malcolm Young, singer Dave Evans, and bassist Larry Van Kriedt. However, his time with the band was short-lived. After AC/DC released their first hit, “Can I Sit Next to You Girl,” and played their debut gig at Chequers nightclub in Sydney, Australia, Burgess was let go.
It was reported that Burgess was accused of getting intoxicated on stage during a 1974 performance. In an attempt to save his job, he claimed that someone had spiked his drink, but his excuse was not accepted. AC/DC went on to replace him with several other drummers, including longtime member Phil Rudd. They even re-recorded “Can I Sit Next to You Girl” with Rudd on drums.
Before his time with AC/DC, Burgess played drums in the popular Australian rock band, The Masters Apprentices, from 1968 to 1972. In 1988, he and the other members of the band were inducted into Australia’s ARIA Hall of Fame, solidifying their impact on the country’s music scene.
Colin Burgess leaves behind a legacy as a talented drummer and an integral part of AC/DC’s early years. He will be remembered and missed by fans and fellow musicians alike. Rest in peace, Colin.
