AC/DC guitarist Malcolm Young dies

AC/DC guitarist Malcolm Young died on Saturday, at the age of 64.

Young was suffering with dementia since 2014, forcing his retirement from the band he co-founded with his brother, Angus Young, in 1973.

He died peacefully on Saturday with his family nearby, a statement said.

"Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young,"

"Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC. With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band. As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man. He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted. He took great pride in all that he endeavored. His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed."

Malcolm Young (right) and his brother Angus (left) co-founded the band

His brother, Angus, said in a statement that "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."

Malcolm Young wrote much of the band's the material that paved the way for AC/DC to become one of the biggest heavy rock bands, including Back In Black, Highway to Hell, and You Shook Me All Night Long.

The Young brothers lost their oldest sibling, George Young, AC/DC’s longtime producer, in October at the age of 70.

The group is estimated to have sold more than 200 million records worldwide, including 71.5 million albums in the US.