AC/DC producer George Young dead at 70

Australian songwriter and producer of AC/DC George Young has died aged 70, The Sun reports.

The rocker - brother of AC/DC’s Angus and Malcolm Young - was a member of the Easybeats and co-wrote its classic hit Friday On My Mind.

His career was synonymous with Albert Music, the record label and production house which has been home to dozens of Australian acts from Stevie Wright to John Paul Young, who is no relation.

David Albert, CEO of Australian recording house Alberts, confirmed the sad news on Facebook in the early hours of Monday morning.

He said: “It is with great sadness that Alberts acknowledge the passing of George Young.

“A consummate songwriter, trailblazing producer, artist, mentor and extraordinary musician, George was above all else a gentleman who was unfailingly modest, charming, intelligent and loyal, a man with a wonderful sense of humour.

“George was a pioneer who, with close friends Harry Vanda and Ted Albert, created a new sound for the Australian music industry. He will be missed.”

AC/DC paid tribute to their “beloved brother and mentor”.

A statement posted on their website read: “It is with pain in our heart that we have to announce the passing of our beloved brother and mentor George Young. Without his help and guidance there would not have been an AC/DC.

“As a musician, songwriter, producer, advisor and much, much more, you could not ask for a more dedicated and professional man.

“As a brother, you could not ask for a finer brother. For all he did and gave to us throughout his life, we will always remember him with gratitude and hold him close to our hearts.”