When the rock band AC/DC first formed back in 1973, the original band members included singer Dave Evans, bassist Larry Van Kriedt, drummer Colin Burgess, and guitarists Angus and Malcolm Young, who also happened to be siblings. Now, the band has released the sad news that one of the original members has died.

In a post on Instagram, 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.”

 

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Burgess was 77 years old at the time of his death. An official cause of death has not been publicly released.

While Burgess was a founding member of AC/DC, his time with the band was pretty short-lived. He was only a member of the band for one year. In 1974, he was fired from the band after he had performed on stage while it at least seemed like he was under the influence of an unknown drug.

After Burgess left the band, there were several drummers who filled his spot, but the longest run was with drummer Phil Rudd who joined the band in 1975 and is still a member to this day.

Some of AC/DC’s biggest hits include “Back in Black” and “For Those About to Rock We Salute You.”

Before joining AC/DC, Burgess was the drummer for the Australian band The Masters Apprentices. They performed in the 1960s and 1970s. In 1998, Burgess was inducted into Australia’s ARIA Hall Of Fame along with other members of the band.

In addition, Burgess also helped form the bands His Majesty and The Burgess Brothers Band. He was also a member of the Dead Singers Band, which performed tributes to Australian singers who had died.

Watch the video below to learn more about Burgess’ music career and his recent death.

Rest in peace.