Highway to Hell, released by AC/DC in 1979, is an iconic rock song that has stood the test of time. Its thunderous beat, roaring guitars, and unforgettable chorus have made it one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. But what if you’re looking for something similar? What other songs have that same kind of hard-driving energy and infectious melody? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best songs that sound like Highway to Hell.
1. T.N.T. – AC/DC
If you’re a fan of Highway to Hell, chances are you’re already a fan of AC/DC in general. And if that’s the case, you really can’t go wrong with T.N.T. This early AC/DC classic has all the trademark elements of their sound: crunchy guitars, pounding drums, and a shout-along chorus that’ll get stuck in your head for days. It’s a perfect match for Highway to Hell fans looking for more of the same.
2. Smokin’ – Boston
Boston’s 1976 hit “Smokin'” is a classic rock tune that shares many of the same qualities as Highway to Hell. It’s got a driving beat, a catchy hook, and plenty of guitar pyrotechnics courtesy of guitarist Tom Scholz. While the song never quite reached the same level of popularity as some of AC/DC’s biggest hits, it’s still a great choice for anyone looking to scratch that hard-rock itch.
3. Panama – Van Halen
Van Halen’s 1984 album is one of the greatest rock records of all time, and “Panama” is one of its standout tracks. The song’s massive riff, infectious melody, and pounding drums make it an instant classic. Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work is, as always, breathtaking, and David Lee Roth’s swaggering vocals are the perfect match for the song’s driving energy. If you’re looking for a song that sounds like Highway to Hell, “Panama” is a strong contender.
4. Fire Your Guns – AC/DC
Another great choice from the AC/DC catalog, “Fire Your Guns” is a lesser-known track from the band’s 1990 album The Razors Edge. But don’t let its relative obscurity fool you: this song is a total banger. It’s got the same kind of grinding riffage and earworm chorus as Highway to Hell, as well as a blistering guitar solo from Angus Young. If you’re looking for something with a bit more of a modern edge than some of the older songs on this list, “Fire Your Guns” is a solid choice.
5. Kickstart My Heart – Mötley Crüe
Finally, we have “Kickstart My Heart” by Mötley Crüe. While the song’s subject matter (it was written about Nikki Sixx’s overdose and subsequent revival) might be a bit darker than the rest of the songs on this list, its energy is undeniable. The song’s opening riff is one of the best in rock history, and the chorus is pure shout-along perfection. If you’re looking for a song that’ll get your blood pumping, “Kickstart My Heart” is it.
Conclusion
There you have it: five great songs that sound like Highway to Hell. Each of these tracks captures some aspect of AC/DC’s iconic sound, whether it’s their driving beats, crunchy guitars, or fist-pumping choruses. If you’re a fan of hard-rocking tunes with a classic feel, any of these songs will scratch that itch.
FAQ
What is the Highway to Hell based off of?
“Highway to Hell” is a classic rock song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1979. The song has become one of the band’s most popular and recognizable tracks, and it has often been referred to as an ode to rock and roll debauchery. However, the song’s title and lyrics actually reflect the arduous nature of touring constantly and life on the road.
The highway that inspired the title of the song is Canning Highway, a major road that runs through the city of Perth, Australia. The highway connects the Perth Kwinana freeway to its port Fremantle and was home to many of Bon Scott’s favourite pubs and hotels, including the Raffles Hotel. Bon Scott was AC/DC’s lead vocalist at the time the song was written and was known to frequent the bars and hotels along Canning Highway.
The lyrics of the song paint a grim picture of life on the road, with lines like “No stop signs, speed limit, nobody’s gonna slow me down” and “Don’t need reason, don’t need rhyme, ain’t nothin’ that I’d rather do.” These lyrics reflect the relentless pace and non-stop touring schedule that many rock bands endure while on the road.
The song has become an anthem for rebellious youth and has been covered by many other bands and artists over the years. However, it is important to note that the song is not just a celebration of rock and roll excess and debauchery, but also a reflection of the challenges and sacrifices that come with a life of constant touring and performing.
“Highway to Hell” is based on the highway that connects Perth to Fremantle where Bon Scott, AC/DC’s lead vocalist, used to frequent the pubs and hotels. The lyrics of the song reflect the grueling nature of life on the road for touring musicians. While the song has become a rock anthem, it is important to recognize that it is a tribute to the hard work and sacrifices that go into a life of touring and performing.
What American band sounds like AC DC?
If you are looking for a band that sounds like AC/DC, you might want to check out Buckcherry, a California-based hard rock band that has often been compared to the legendary Australian band. Buckcherry was formed in 1995 and has released several albums, earning a loyal fanbase with their high-energy music and powerful guitar riffs.
One of the reasons why Buckcherry is often compared to AC/DC is their lead singer, Josh Todd, who has a vocal style similar to that of AC/DC’s iconic frontman, Bon Scott. Todd’s gritty, raspy voice perfectly complements the band’s hard-rocking sound, which features driving drums, heavy bass lines and catchy guitar riffs.
While Buckcherry’s music is certainly reminiscent of AC/DC, the band has also developed their own unique sound over the years. They infuse their hard rock with elements of punk, blues and even country music, creating a style that is both familiar and innovative. Some of the band’s most well-known songs include “Crazy Bitch,” “Lit Up” and “Sorry,” all of which showcase their hard-rocking sound and catchy hooks.
So if you’re a fan of AC/DC and are looking for a band that delivers a similar kind of energy and raw power, Buckcherry might be the perfect choice for you. With their hard-rocking sound and larger-than-life live performances, these California rockers are sure to get your blood pumping and your head banging.