Eddie Van Halen has led tributes to the late Malcolm Young

And since the news broke, tributes have flooded in, with Van Halen guitarist and co-founder Eddie dubbing it a “sad day in rock and roll”.

He wrote on Twitter: “It is a sad day in rock and roll. Malcolm Young was my friend and the heart and soul of AC/DC. I had some of the best times of my life with him on our 1984 European tour. He will be missed and my deepest condolences to his family, bandmates and friends.”

Bryan Adams labelled Malcolm as an “inspiration”, writing: “RIP Malcolm Young. Your guitar playing was a huge inspiration. Thanks for that #malcolmyoung #ACDC (sic)”

Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro also paid tribute, simply tweeting: “Rest in peace Malcolm Young x (sic)”, whilst Kelly Jones took to Stereophonics’ twitter to write: “'Malcom Young the best right hand in game! RIP. Play AC/DC loud all day!' KJ @acdc (sic)”

‘Come Pick Me Up’ singer Ryan Adams dubbed the late ‘Highway To Hell’ hitmaker as a “legend” in a Twitter tribute which read: “RIP Malcolm Young?“Legend.?“He was the founding member of AC/DC & the engine that roared behind the most powerful band in the world.?“He wrote Back In Black, Highway to Hell, You Shook Me All Night Long, Highway to Hell, so many songs...?“Travel safely to the stars, Malcolm.?“Legend. (sic)”

The news of Malcolm’s passing was confirmed by AC/DC on Facebook, in a post written by his younger brother and band mate Angus.

It read: “Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young.?“Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC.?“With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band.?“As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man.?"He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted.?“He took great pride in all that he endeavored.?“His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed.?“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.?“He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever.?“Malcolm, job well done. (sic)”