AC/DC has reached a significant milestone in their storied career. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has certified their 1980 album, "Back in Black," as 26 times platinum. This monumental achievement places "Back in Black" on par with the Eagles' "Hotel California," making them the third biggest selling albums in the U.S.
The top two albums in the U.S. are the Eagles' "Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975)" at 38-million, and Michael Jackson's "Thriller" at 34 million. This places "Back in Black" in an elite group of albums, demonstrating its enduring popularity and the timeless appeal of AC/DC's hard-hitting brand of music.
"Back in Black" holds a special place in AC/DC's discography as it is their first album with singer Brian Johnson, who was hired after the tragic death of Bon Scott in 1979. The early stages of songs that would make it onto "Back in Black" were influenced by Angus Young's brother, Malcolm Young. Malcolm had a couple of ideas, especially the 'Back in Black' riff, the title track. Angus had been fiddling around with little bits of 'You Shook Me [All Night Long]'. Malcolm had these riffs he said he couldn't get out of his head, so he had them on tape. He played them to Angus and asked, 'What do you think?' To which Angus responded, 'Hey, they're great.' This collaborative spirit and creative energy fueled the creation of an album that continues to resonate with fans decades after its release.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]