AC/DC legend Malcolm Young given final farewell as family carry his beloved guitar to his funeral
Former singer Brian Johnson was among mourners in tears as they bid farewell to the rock legend, who died after a dementia battle aged 64
ROCK legend Malcolm Young's guitar was carried by his brother today as friends and family paid tribute to the AC/DC founder at his funeral in Sydney.
Former bandmate Brian Johnson and other mourners were in tears as Scots pipers led the cortege past a crowd of fans to St Mary's Cathedral.
After the ceremony Malcolm's younger brother Angus carried the guitar - nicknamed The Beast - down the cathedral steps ahead of the coffin and placed it in the hearse.
Glasgow-born rocker Malcolm died earlier this month aged 64 after a three year battle with dementia.
Today his former bandmates including ex-lead singer Johnson, bassists Mark Evans and Cliff Williams and drummer Phil Rudd were among the hundreds of mourners saying farewell.
Guitar picks engraved with Malcolm's dates of birth and death were handed to each of the congregation in tribute to the legendary rhythm guitarist and songwriter.
He was hailed as "visionary" by his brother following his death on November 18.
Angus said on Facebook: "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 endeavoured.
"His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed."
Malcolm and Angus moved with their family to Australia as children and formed the band together in Sydney in 1973.
They picked the name after their older sister Margaret saw the initials AC/DC on a sewing machine - which stands for "alternating current/direct current".
They went on to become one of the most successful groups in music history with 200million album sales and a string of hits including Highway to Hell, Thunderstruck and Hells Bells.
Their seminal 1980 record Back in Black sold 50million copies, second only to Michael Jackson's Thriller.
After falling ill, Malcolm was replaced by nephew Stevie for the band’s last tour promoting the 2014 album Rock Or Bust.
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He died "peacefully" with his family by his bedside.
Angus said the bond he shared with his brother was "unique and very special".
He said: "He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on for ever."
Malcolm is survived by his widow Linda, children Cara and Ross, and three grandchildren.
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