Malcolm Young dead – AC/DC guitarist and co-founder dies aged 64 after dementia battle

ROCK legend Malcolm Young has died following a three year battle with dementia.

Young, the co-founder and creator of AC/DC, was aged 64 when he died earlier this morning.

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Malcolm wrote the band's material which helped them to become one of the biggest rock groups in history.

With his talent, the band produced a string of hits including Highway to Hell, Back in Black, Thunderstruck and Hells Bells.

Paying tribute to the guitarist on Facebook, his younger brother Angus described him as the "driving force behind the band".

He added: "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.

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"He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted. He took great pride in all that he endeavoured. His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed."

The Young family had just lost George, AC/DC's longtime producer at the age of 70.

Malcolm, who had three kids with his wife Linda, died with his family at his bedside, it was confirmed.

The news was first released on AC/DC's Facebook page.

The grief-stricken band said: "It is with deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of Malcolm Young, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother.

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"While thanking all for their overwhelming support and heartfelt condolences, the family ask that you respect their privacy during this time of heartbreak and grief."

Young retired from the band in 2014 due to the nature of his condition.

The band used their heartache to fuel their next and final album Rock or Bust.

Malcolm formed the band with his brother back in 1973 Australia, and named after their older sister Margaret saw the initials AC/DC on a sewing machine - which stands for "alternating current/direct current".

Young will be remembered for his ";musical prowess" and his "visionary" mindset which inspired many.

The family have asked for donations to be sent to The Salvation Army, instead of flowers.

Fellow rocker Damon Johnson from Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy led tributes on Twitter.

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