'Without his help there would not have been an AC/DC': Aussie rock icon George Young dies aged 70

Australian music icon George Young, guitarist for the Easybeats and producer for AC/DC, has died aged 70.

Young co-wrote and produced some of Australia’s best known rock hits, including the Easybeats’ “Friday On My Mind”, John Paul Young’s “Love Is In the Air” and Stevie Wright’s three-part epic “Evie”.

Young was inducted into the ARIA hall of fame twice, in 1988 with writing partner Harry Vanda and again in 2005 with The Easybeats.

AC/DC, which featured his brothers Angus and Malcolm, paid tribute to Young in a statement.

“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,” the band said.

“As a musician, songwriter, producer, adviser 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.”

Tributes from the Australian music industry and fans have begun flowing for Young.