AC/DC – Back In Black 12" Vinyl LP Album

- The thunderous 1980 comeback that redefined hard rock forever

Album Front Cover Photo of AC/DC – Back In Black Visit: https://vinyl-records.nl/

In 1980, Australian hard rock icons AC/DC unleashed “Back in Black,” a powerful rebirth forged in the wake of tragedy. Marking Brian Johnson’s electrifying debut as lead singer, this 12" vinyl LP became one of the best-selling albums in music history. Fueled by Robert John "Mutt" Lange’s razor-sharp production and anchored by the Young brothers’ unmistakable riffs, it stands as a timeless monument to resilience, rebellion, and rock perfection.

Table of Contents

"Back in Black" Album Description:

Released in 1980, AC/DC's "Back in Black" quickly became a classic and a staple of the rock genre. The album is the band's seventh studio release and marked a turning point in their career. "Back in Black" is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock albums of all time, and for good reason.

The album features ten tracks, including some of the band's most famous songs such as "Hells Bells", "You Shook Me All Night Long". From start to finish, the album is packed with hard-hitting riffs, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals.

The opening track, "Hells Bells," sets the tone for the album with its haunting bell tolls and heavy guitar riffs. The song is an ode to Bon Scott, the band's previous lead singer who passed away just months before the album's release. The band's new lead singer, Brian Johnson, takes the reins and delivers a powerful performance that sets the stage for the rest of the album.

The title track, ""Back in Black", is an instant classic. The song's opening riff is one of the most recognizable in rock history, and the lyrics are a statement of intent from the band.

"You Shook Me All Night Long" is another iconic track from the album. The song is a catchy, upbeat anthem that has become a staple of rock radio. The song's chorus is instantly recognizable, and the guitar solo is one of the most famous in rock history.

The album's production is also worth noting. The band worked with legendary producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange to create a sound that was both raw and polished. The album's mix is clean and crisp, with each instrument and vocal track standing out in the mix.

The album's artwork is also iconic. The cover features a simple, black background with the band's logo in bold, silver letters. The simplicity of the design is a perfect match for the album's straightforward, no-frills rock and roll.

Album Key Details: Genre, Label, Format & Release Info

Music Genre:

Hard Rock / Classic Rock (Australian)

“Back in Black” defined the sound of 1980s hard rock — thunderous riffs, relentless rhythm, and raw power wrapped in precision. AC/DC’s distinctly Australian take on rock fused blues grit with arena-sized swagger, influencing generations of heavy rock bands.

Label & Catalognr:

Atlantic Records – ATL 50735

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl LP Stereo
Total Album (Cover + Record) Weight: 230 g

Year & Country:

1980 – Germany

Collector’s Notes:

Early German pressings such as Atlantic ATL 50735 are prized for their crisp mastering and heavy vinyl weight (~230 g). The embossed logo on the matte-black sleeve and laminated inner sleeve make this edition a must-have for collectors of hard rock history.

Production & Recording Information:

Producers:
  • Robert John "Mutt" Lange – Producer
    South African–born producer whose meticulous approach shaped the crisp, powerful sound of “Back in Black.” His studio precision elevated AC/DC’s raw energy into timeless hard rock anthems.
Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • Tony Platt – Recording Engineer
    Experienced British engineer who previously worked on AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell.” His clean and dynamic recording approach helped preserve the band’s raw energy while improving sonic clarity.
  • Benji Armbrister – Assistant Engineer
    A Compass Point Studios regular, Armbrister assisted on numerous major rock and pop sessions during the late 1970s and early 1980s, contributing to the studio’s world-class reputation.
  • Jack Newber – Assistant Engineer
    Supported the engineering team during the “Back in Black” sessions, ensuring precise tape operations and consistent sound capture throughout the album’s production.
  • Brad Samuelsohn – Mixing Engineer
    Known for his sharp mixing on numerous rock projects, Samuelsohn brought balance and punch to the final mixes, giving “Back in Black” its polished yet powerful sound.
Recording Location:
  • Compass Point Studios (Bahamas) Compass Point Studios, founded in 1977 by Chris Blackwell, the visionary owner of Island Records, stands as a pivotal and iconic institution in the realm of music production, particularly during the vibrant decades of the 1970s and 1980s. Nestled in the picturesque Bahamas, just outside Nassau, this studio emerged as a tropical oasis that not only offered a breathtaking setting but also fostered a distinctive creative atmosphere that left an indelible mark on the global music scene. The 1970s and 1980s witnessed a plethora of influential albums recorded at Compass Point Studios, spanning various genres such as rock, reggae, funk, and pop. Artists like Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Iron Maiden Talking Heads, and The Rolling Stones all left their mark on the studio, contributing to its legacy as a hub of musical innovation.
    Compass Point Studios Wiki
Mastering Location:
  • Lacquer cut at Strawberry Mastering, London
    Strawberry Mastering, founded by 10cc members, became one of the UK’s premier cutting studios in the 1970s and 1980s, renowned for high-fidelity rock and pop masterings.
Album Cover Design & Artwork:
  • Bob Defrin – Art Direction
    Bob Defrin is a renowned art director and album cover designer best known for his striking visuals for hard rock and heavy metal acts in the 1980s. His bold, memorable imagery helped define the visual identity of bands like AC/DC, Twisted Sister, and Metallica. Discover more in this profile.
Photography:
  • Robert Ellis – Photographer
    Robert Ellis is a renowned music photographer celebrated for capturing iconic live performances and behind-the-scenes moments of legendary rock and metal bands. His compelling visual storytelling has appeared in countless magazines and album sleeves. Discover more through this dedicated profile.

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up:
  • Brian Johnson – Lead Vocals
    Brian Johnson, who joined AC/DC in 1980 following the death of Bon Scott, brought a raw, powerhouse voice that defined the band’s rebirth on “Back in Black.” His distinctive rasp and relentless energy elevated the album into one of the best-selling records in history. Johnson’s gritty delivery and commanding stage presence made him one of hard rock’s most recognizable and enduring frontmen.
  • Angus Young – Lead Guitar
    Angus Young, the lead guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC, has been the driving force behind the band’s legendary sound since their inception in 1973. Renowned for his high-energy performances, schoolboy outfit, and blistering guitar solos, Young’s riff-driven style powered classic albums like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell.” His iconic stage presence and unmatched talent make him a rock legend.
  • Malcolm Young – Rhythm Guitar
    Malcolm Young, the rhythm guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC, was the backbone of the band’s iconic sound from 1973 until his retirement in 2014. Known for his tight, powerful riffs and impeccable timing, Malcolm’s rhythm work laid the foundation for classics like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black.” His understated genius and relentless drive cemented AC/DC’s place in rock history.
  • Cliff Williams – Bass Guitar
    Cliff Williams, AC/DC’s bassist from 1977 until his retirement in 2016 (and briefly returning in 2020), provided the steady, hard-hitting backbone of the band’s sound. Renowned for his solid, no-frills playing, Williams’ basslines powered iconic albums like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell.” His unwavering rhythm and stage presence made him an integral part of AC/DC’s legendary legacy.
  • Phil Rudd – Drums
    Phil Rudd, AC/DC’s drummer during key periods from 1975 to 1983 and 1994 to 2015, delivered the band’s signature driving beats with precision and power. Known for his steady, unrelenting drumming style, Rudd’s rhythms anchored classics like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black.” His minimalist yet impactful approach made him a vital force in AC/DC’s legendary sound.

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Hells Bells
  2. Shoot to Thrill
  3. What Do You Do for Money Honey
  4. Given the Dog a Bone
  5. Let Me Put My Love into You
Video: AC/DC - Hells Bells (Official 4K Video)
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Back in Black
  2. You Shook Me All Night Long
  3. Have a Drink on Me
  4. Shake a Leg
  5. Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution
Video: AC/DC - You Shook Me All Night Long (Official 4K Video)

Release Date: 25 July 1980. Recorded in the Bahamas under stormy weather conditions, this album marked AC/DC’s triumphant rebirth after Bon Scott’s passing — and became one of the best-selling albums in music history.

Legacy & Impact:

“Back in Black” is one of the best-selling albums ever, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. Its stark black cover became a global symbol of rock resilience and tribute. The album cemented AC/DC’s place as one of the greatest hard rock bands of all time.

Album Front Cover Photo
The front cover of AC/DC’s 1980 album Back In Black, featuring a stark black matte background that absorbs light, with the band’s iconic lightning-bolt logo outlined in fine silver-grey lines at the top center. The embossed album title subtly emerges beneath the surface, nearly invisible except under direct light. This minimalist yet monumental design communicates grief, strength, and defiance, a perfect visual echo of the music’s thunderous power and the band’s tribute to their late singer, Bon Scott.

The Back In Black front cover is one of the most recognizable designs in rock history, a masterclass in minimalism that captures both mourning and might. The matte-black sleeve absorbs light rather than reflecting it, a subtle yet powerful symbol of loss following the death of vocalist Bon Scott. Against this somber field, the band’s AC/DC logo — outlined in sharp silver-grey lines — strikes like a bolt of electricity across a night sky.

Below the logo, the album title Back In Black is embossed rather than printed, nearly disappearing into the background, visible only when light grazes the surface. This intentional restraint transforms the design into a silent act of remembrance, a monument in vinyl form. The absence of color speaks louder than any illustration could, underscoring the emotional gravity behind the band’s comeback.

Designed under the art direction of Bob Defrin, this sleeve perfectly mirrors the record’s sonic force — clean, confident, and timeless. Its tactile depth and stark contrast made it an instant icon, influencing generations of album art with its simplicity and symbolic resonance. The result is more than a cover; it is an emblem of resilience, rebirth, and the eternal charge of rock and roll.

Album Back Cover Photo
The back cover of AC/DC’s 1980 album Back In Black, featuring a minimalist black matte background with the full ten-song track listing centered in white serif type. The text appears as a solemn column of titles — 'Back in Black', 'Hells Bells', 'Shoot to Thrill', and others — forming a stark vertical structure that mirrors the front cover’s restraint. At the lower edge, the Atlantic Records logo and manufacturing credits appear in small print, anchoring the design with industry precision. The contrast between white text and black field reflects the band’s unyielding simplicity and the powerful aesthetic of mourning turned to triumph.

The Back In Black back cover continues the stark visual language established by its front sleeve — a deep matte-black surface interrupted only by a centered column of song titles printed in crisp white. The ten-track listing stands tall and symmetrical, forming a visual spine that captures the album’s balance between darkness and structure.

Each title is rendered in a traditional serif typeface, unembellished and bold, reflecting AC/DC’s straightforward approach to music: power, precision, and no distractions. The sequence reads like a declaration — “Back in Black,” “Hells Bells,” “Shoot to Thrill,” “You Shook Me All Night Long” — every line a cornerstone of hard rock history.

At the bottom edge, the Atlantic Records logo and production credits appear in small, fine print, grounding the artwork in the analog world of vinyl pressings. This clean monochrome layout, devoid of imagery or ornamentation, serves as both tribute and testament — a visual echo of loss, resilience, and raw electric vitality. The design’s silence speaks louder than any photograph could.

Photo of the Custom Inner Sleeve
The custom inner sleeve of AC/DC’s 1980 album Back In Black, featuring a dynamic collage of five black-and-white band photographs arranged against a dark matte background. At the center, Angus Young dominates the composition mid-performance, legs wide apart, his Gibson SG guitar raised in a burst of stage light and motion. To the right, Phil Rudd is captured behind his Sonor drum kit, every muscle locked in rhythm, and Malcolm Young stands in shadow, gripping his Gretsch guitar with quiet intensity. On the left, Cliff Williams appears at the microphone, his bass slung low, and below him, Brian Johnson leans casually against a brick wall in his signature flat cap and denim. Each photo radiates the group’s gritty unity and electric stage presence, contrasting the solemn exterior sleeve with raw, human energy.

The custom inner sleeve of Back In Black bursts with life, a striking contrast to the album’s somber black exterior. Composed of five monochrome images, it captures the band in their natural habitat — the stage, the studio, and the spotlight — each frame pulsing with movement and sweat.

At the center, Angus Young dominates the scene, frozen mid-riff in his schoolboy uniform, legs braced, guitar screaming into the void. To his right, Phil Rudd hammers his Sonor drum kit with relentless focus, while Malcolm Young commands rhythm guitar in the shadows, his stance unshakable. On the left, Cliff Williams holds down the low end, his expression locked in the moment, and below, Brian Johnson appears relaxed yet ready, his trademark cap tilted as if to salute the storm he helped unleash.

The layout radiates grit and brotherhood — a tribute not through words but through posture and sound. It is a portrait of a band reborn: raw, relentless, and united by loss and purpose. This visual intimacy transforms the inner sleeve into a backstage pass to AC/DC’s world — loud, loyal, and alive.

Close up of the AC/DC – Back In Black record label
Close-up of the Atlantic Records Side One label from AC/DC’s 1980 album Back In Black. The label has a clean silver-grey background with bold black print and the iconic 'ATLANTIC' logo arched across the upper section. On the left edge, a gold Musikalhaus Rosenbaum Burgdorf sticker stands out. Below the spindle hole, the centered track listing lists five songs: 'Hells Bells,' 'Shoot to Thrill,' 'What Do You Do for Money Honey,' 'Given the Dog a Bone,' and 'Let Me Put My Love into You.' The text includes production details, writing credits (Young, Young, and Johnson), and catalog number ATL 50735. Simple, elegant, and precision-made, it reflects the album’s blend of power and polish.

The Side One record label of Back In Black exemplifies the clarity and precision of Atlantic Records’ 1980s design language. The label’s silver-grey base provides a subtle metallic sheen that contrasts against the bold, matte-black Atlantic logo that sweeps across the top like a signature banner.

The layout is functional yet balanced — track titles are neatly aligned and numbered, starting with Hells Bells and concluding with Let Me Put My Love Into You. Around the spindle hole, small blocks of information reveal the German GEMA rights label, stereo marking, and the catalog number ATL 50735. Below, fine print credits Albert Productions and songwriting trio Young, Young, and Johnson.

A distinctive touch is the gold oval sticker marked Musikhaus Rosenbaum Burgdorf, indicating retail distribution through a local German record shop. This small regional detail anchors the pressing’s authenticity. The minimalist typography, monochrome palette, and disciplined spacing echo the album’s sonic design — unadorned, powerful, and timeless.

Collector’s Note: The Missing Inner Sleeve Mystery

Back when floppy disks ruled and “cloud storage” was just what happened when it rained, archiving vinyl photos wasn’t exactly practical. Somewhere between the magnetic hum and the coffee stains, the other side of the Custom Inner Sleeve from AC/DC’s "Back in Black" (1980) refused to fit on my 1.44 MB masterpiece of modern technology.

So here we are — one side immortalized, the other lost to the analog void. A reminder that even in the mighty world of hard rock and heavy pressings, sometimes your biggest regret isn’t a scratched record… it’s a missing JPEG from the pre-cloud era.

(If I ever find that floppy, I promise to upload it — right after I locate my 56k modem.)

Index of AC/DC Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

There’s a moment after the last track spins out — the amp hums, the room still crackles — and you realize AC/DC never just made records. They built soundtracks for sweat, neon, and defiance. “High Voltage” was only the first spark. From there, the charge ran wild through every groove, every stage, every screaming crowd. The vinyl tells that story best: raw, loud, unpolished. Drop the needle again, or step into the archive below — a gallery of every riff, label, and sleeve that carried the world’s hardest-working band from barroom smoke to electric immortality.

AC/DC - 3 Record Set Atlantic 60149 12" Vinyl 3LP
AC/DC - 3 Record Set Atlantic 60149 album front cover vinyl record

 ATLANTIC 60149 , Germany

AC/DC's 3 LP Record Box Set, cataloged as ATLANTIC 60149, encapsulates the band's formidable presence in the late 1970s rock scene. Featuring three iconic albums

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AC/DC - Baby Please Don't Go b/w Jail Break 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Baby Please Don't Go b/w Jail Break album front cover vinyl record

Atlantic PRO 171 , 1976

AC/DC's "Baby Please Don't Go / Jailbreak" 7" vinyl is a musical masterpiece, blending blues and rock seamlessly. Released during a pivotal period

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Updated AC/DC – Back in Black (1980 Germany) album front cover vinyl LP album https://vinyl-records.nl
AC/DC – Back in Black (1980 Germany) 12" Vinyl LP

AC/DC’s “Back in Black” (1980, Atlantic ATL 50735) roared out of tragedy into triumph, introducing Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals after Bon Scott’s passing. Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, this hard-rock landmark from Germany blends electrifying riffs, precision production, and iconic tracks like “Hells Bells” and “You Shook Me All Night Long.”

AC/DC - Blow Up Your Video 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Blow Up Your Video album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic 781 828 , 1988 , Germany

This album showcases AC/DC's raw power and enduring legacy. A testament to the band's resilience, it remains a must-have for vinyl enthusiasts, blending timeless rock with a contemporary edge

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AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Dutch, German and Italian Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Italian and Dutch Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Initially recorded in 1975, its unique cover art and rarity contribute to its mystique. The vinyl's delayed global debut intensified its appeal, making it a cherished piece in rock histor

AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Germany) AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Holland) AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Italy)
AC/DC - Flick of the Switch 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Flick of the Switch album front cover vinyl record

  Atlantic 78-0100-1 , 1983 , Netherlands

"Flick of the Switch" stands out as a raw and powerful collection of tracks that capture the essence of the band's signature sound. Released as a 12" vinyl LP album, the record showcases AC/DC at their peak

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AC/DC - Fly On The Wall 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Fly On The Wall album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic 781 263 , 1985 , EEC

Recorded in Switzerland, the self-produced album explores a voyeuristic concept, portraying life through ten tracks.

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AC/DC - For Those About to Rock (German & USA) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - For Those About to Rock (German & USA) album front cover vinyl record

The 1981 album, a successor to "Back in Black," showcased AC/DC's signature power. The 12" vinyl format enhanced the sonic experience, complemented by iconic cover artwork.

For Those About To Rock We Salute You ( 1981 Germany ) For Those About to Rock ( 1981 USA )
AC/DC - For Those About To Rock (1981 Holland) 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
AC/DC - For Those About To Rock (1981 Holland) album front cover vinyl record

  Atlantic ATL 20276 , 1981 , Holland

The classic "Let There Be Rock" showcased AC/DC's raw energy. Lange's meticulous production added depth, contributing to the record's enduring appeal. This Maxi-Single symbolized the unyielding spirit of hard rock

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Updated AC/DC - High Voltage Genuine Australian Release album front cover vinyl LP album https://vinyl-records.nl
AC/DC - High Voltage Genuine Australian Pressing

Before arenas, cannons, and chaos, there was raw voltage from Sydney’s backstreets. “High Voltage” crackled with the kind of grit only AC/DC could summon — beer-soaked riffs, swaggering grooves, and a hint of barroom menace. Angus Young’s guitar didn’t sing; it spat sparks, marking the birth of a sound that would electrify every pub and festival from here to eternity.

AC/DC - High Voltage (1976 Belgium) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - High Voltage (1976 Belgium) album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic ATL 50 527 , 1976 , Belgium

AC/DC's debut studio album, "High Voltage," released in February 1975, revolutionized rock with its raw energy and iconic tracks. The Belgium Import 12" Vinyl LP edition adds collectible allure

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AC/DC - Highway to Hell (1979 Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Highway to Hell (1979 Germany) album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic Records ATL 50 628 , 1979 , Germany

Angus Young shreds electrifying riffs on a speeding highway to hell! AC/DC's iconic "Highway to Hell" cover blazes with rock & roll rebellion. Buckle up for high-voltage anthems! (199 characters)

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AC/DC - If You Want Blood You've Got It (Europe & Germany) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - If You Want Blood You've Got It ( Europe & Germany) album front cover

"If You Want Blood You've Got It" is the first live album by Australian hard rock band AC/DC, originally released in the US on 21 November 1978. All songs were written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young and Bon Scott.

If You Want Blood You've Got It ( Europe ) If You Want Blood You've Got It (Germany)
AC/DC - Let There Be Rock (Canadian and German Issues) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Let There Be Rock (Canadian and German Issues) album front cover

"Let There Be Rock" is a hard-hitting masterpiece that defined the band's electrifying sound. With thunderous riffs, Angus Young's blistering guitar solos, and Bon Scott's gritty vocals

AC/DC - Let There Be Rock ( 1977 Canada ) AC/DC - Let There Be Rock ( Germany )
AC/DC - Live Special Collector's Edition 12" 2LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Live Special Collector's Edition album front cover

 ATCO 7567-92212, , 1992 , Germany

The gatefold album cover features an unexpected twist, showcasing a playful image of Miss Piggy in a stylish outfit. This unconventional addition adds a touch of humor to the iconic rock band's live music collection

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AC/DC - PowerAge (Canadian and German Releases)
Thumbnail of AC/DC - PowerAge (Canadian and German Releases) album front cover

The album PowerAge encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the era. Recorded at Sydney's Albert Studios, its production strikes a balance between live energy and studio finesse.

AC/DC - Powerage (Canada Release) AC/DC - Powerage (German Release)
AC/DC - The Razors Edge (1990, EEC Europe) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - The Razors Edge (1990, EEC Eurpe) . album front cover

ATCO 7567 91413 , 1990 , EEC

"The Razor's Edge" with Iconic tracks like "Thunderstruck" and "Moneytalks" became classics, while ATCO Records' role in production ensured global success.

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AC/DC - Who Made Who (Two International Versions)
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Who Made Who (Two International Versions) album front cover

"Who Made Who" known for its role in Stephen King's Maximum Overdrive, epitomizes the vibrant '80s rock scene. This collector's item reflects the synergy between music and film during the era.

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AC/DC - Who Made Who 7" Single
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Who Made Who album front cover

Released in 1986, it served as the soundtrack to the movie "Maximum Overdrive." The title track, along with "D.T." and "Chase the Ace," delivers a high-voltage dose of AC/DC's signature rock sound.

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