Malcolm Young: Angus Young, Ryan Adams, Biffy Clyro among those paying tribute to AC/DC co-founder

Legendary guitarist died after a long battle with dementia

On stage in Brisbane, Australia, in 2010 (Bradley Kanaris/Getty)

Friends, family and fans are remembering legendary guitarist Malcolm Young after his death aged 64.

The AC/DC co-founder died surrounded by family after a long battle with dementia.

Leading the tributes was his brother and bandmate Angus Young, who said in a statement: "As his brother it is hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special. He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever. Malcolm, job well done."

A statement from American punk band Dropkick Murphys posted on Twitter said: “We are deeply saddened to have heard the news of the passing of Malcolm Young from AC/DC.

“Malcolm was the heart and soul of AC/DC and as fine an example as any to rhythm guitarists everywhere. Rock In Peace, Malcolm. Hope we see you up there. Love Dropkick Murphys .”

Scottish rock band Biffy Clyro wrote: “Rest in peace Malcolm Young x.”

Pulled Apart By Horses tweeted: “Gone, but he'll never be forgotten. RIP Malcolm Young xx.”

Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale wrote: “Our Thoughts & Prayers Are With His Family, Friends & Fans...Great Guy ...A Pleasure To Know...Truly Missed, Malcolm...XX”

Guitarist Robert Caggiano added: “You wrote the best riffs in the best band and you changed the world. £legend.”

Born 6 January 1953 in Glasgow, Scotland before emigrating with his family to Australia in 1963, Young was best know for being the driving force behind the band he co-founded with his younger brother Angus in 1973.

He wrote the band's material and came up with many of their biggest and best guitar riffs. AC/DC would go on to become one of the biggest rock bands in history, racking up hits including “Back In Black”, “Highway to Hell”, “You Shook Me All Night Long”, and many more. The brothers were credited as co-writers on every song they recorded, from their 1975 debut High Voltage to 2014's Rock or Bust.