Most fans know AC/DC’s longtime drummer Phil Rudd as the backbone of one of the biggest rock bands on the planet. Rudd isn’t the first drummer to appear on an AC/DC recording, however.
That distinction belongs to Colin Burgess who sadly passed away earlier this weekend at the age of 77.
“Very sad to hear of the passing of Colin Burgess,” AC/DC announced via social media. “He was our first drummer and a very respected musician. Happy memories, rock in peace Colin.”
Burgess joined AC/DC in 1973 and played the band’s first show in Sydney, Australia. The band lineup at the time was rounded out by guitarists Angus and Malcolm Young, singer Dave Evans, and bassist Larry Van Kriedt.
Burgess appeared on the band’s first single, the original version of “Can I Sit Next To You Girl,” which featured Angus and Malcolm’s brother George on bass.
The song was later re-recorded with Phil Rudd on drums, Mark Evans on bass and Bon Scott on vocals.
Burgess played previously with Aussie rock band The Masters Apprentices in the late ’60s and early ‘70s and was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame as a member of that band.
