AC/DC has delivered decades of electrifying performances, packed with some of the most iconic rock anthems of all time. Their concerts are a powerhouse of energy, featuring fan-favorites that keep audiences coming back for more. However, with such a vast catalog, not every song makes it to the stage.
While tracks like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell” dominate setlists, countless hidden gems remain untouched in their live performances. It’s a testament to the band’s consistency and formulaic charm that fans rarely feel shortchanged, even with many songs left unplayed.
Still, for die-hard fans, the idea of hearing certain overlooked tracks live sparks curiosity and excitement. As the band readies for another leg of their tour, it’s worth exploring the AC/DC songs that have yet to make their live debut.
10. “Shot of Love” (The Razors Edge, 1990)
“Shot of Love,” a track from AC/DC’s 1990 album The Razors Edge, is a hard-hitting anthem that showcases the band’s signature sound. Despite its energetic composition and catchy chorus, it has never been performed live.
This omission is curious, especially considering that The Razors Edge features several other tracks that became staples in their setlists, such as “Thunderstruck” and “Moneytalks.”
The song’s themes of desire and recklessness resonate with AC/DC’s trademark style, yet it seems to have been overshadowed by more commercially successful tracks. Fans often speculate about why certain songs are neglected in live performances, and “Shot of Love” serves as a prime example of a track that could energize a crowd but remains confined to studio recordings.
9. “Meanstreak” (Blow Up Your Video, 1988)
Another intriguing entry on this list is “Meanstreak,” from the 1988 album Blow Up Your Video. The song features a driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs typical of AC/DC’s sound. However, despite its solid composition and potential for live energy, it has never been included in any setlist.
The late ’80s marked a transitional period for AC/DC, as they navigated changes in rock music trends. While some tracks from this era made it into live rotations, “Meanstreak” fell through the cracks.
This raises questions about how the band’s evolving identity influenced their choices regarding which songs to perform live.
8. “Night of the Long Knives” (For Those About to Rock (We Salute You), 1981)
“Night of the Long Knives,” featured on the album For Those About to Rock (We Salute You), is steeped in historical references and showcases AC/DC’s ability to blend storytelling with hard rock.
Despite its compelling narrative and robust instrumentation, this track has never been played live. The song’s complex themes may contribute to its absence from setlists; bands often prefer to select songs that create an immediate connection with audiences.
Nevertheless, “Night of the Long Knives” remains a fascinating piece within AC/DC’s catalog that fans would love to experience in a live setting.
7. “Ain’t No Fun (Waiting Round to Be a Millionaire)” (Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, 1976)
From their classic album Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, “Ain’t No Fun (Waiting Round to Be a Millionaire)” is another song that has never seen a live performance.
This track combines humor with social commentary, reflecting on themes of wealth and ambition through a rock lens. Despite its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, AC/DC has opted not to include this fan-favorite in their live repertoire.
The decision may stem from the band’s focus on high-energy hits that drive audience engagement during concerts rather than deeper cuts that might not resonate as strongly in a large venue.
6. “Realize” (Power Up, 2020)
“Realize,” from AC/DC’s latest album Power Up, showcases the band’s enduring ability to create impactful music even after decades in the industry. Released in 2020, this track carries forward their classic sound while introducing fresh elements.
However, it has yet to be performed live since its release. The absence of “Realize” from live shows could be attributed to the band’s preference for older hits that have solidified their legacy over time.
As they continue to tour and perform iconic tracks from their extensive catalog, newer songs like “Realize” may take time before they find a place in future setlists.
5. “Snowballed” (For Those About to Rock (We Salute You), 1981)
Another notable omission is “Snowballed,” also from For Those About to Rock (We Salute You). This track features an infectious groove and powerful guitar work but has never made it into an AC/DC concert lineup.
The song’s unique sound might not align with audience expectations during high-energy performances where familiarity breeds excitement.
As such, while “Snowballed” remains an intriguing part of their discography, its absence from live shows reflects the band’s strategic choices regarding setlist dynamics.
4. “Gimme a Bullet” (Powerage, 1978)
“Gimme a Bullet,” hailing from Powerage, is one of those tracks that encapsulates AC/DC’s raw energy and hard-hitting lyrics. Despite being well-received by fans and critics alike upon its release in 1978, it has never found its way into a live performance.
This omission highlights how even standout tracks can slip through the cracks when bands prioritize certain songs for their setlists based on popularity or crowd response potential.
For many fans, hearing “Gimme a Bullet” live would be an electrifying experience that remains unfulfilled.
3. “There’s Gonna Be Some Rockin’” (Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, 1976)
From the same album as “Ain’t No Fun,” “There’s Gonna Be Some Rockin’” is another track that has never been played live by AC/DC. Its upbeat tempo and celebratory lyrics make it an ideal candidate for concert settings; however, it remains absent from setlists.
The decision not to perform this song could stem from various factors including logistical considerations or simply prioritizing other tracks deemed more essential for fan engagement during shows.
Nevertheless, its absence continues to leave fans longing for a chance to experience it live.
2. “Night Prowler” (Highway to Hell, 1979)
“Night Prowler,” featured on Highway to Hell, is one of AC/DC’s darker offerings with haunting lyrics and an atmospheric soundscape.
Despite being critically acclaimed and beloved by fans for its unique vibe, it has never been performed live by the band. This decision might be influenced by the song’s thematic elements which contrast sharply with AC/DC’s typically high-energy performances.
As such, while “Night Prowler” holds significant artistic value within their catalog, it remains locked away from live audiences.
1. “Let Me Put My Love Into You” (Back in Black, 1980)
Finally, we arrive at “Let Me Put My Love Into You,” another track from one of AC/DC’s most iconic albums—Back in Black. This song features powerful riffs and passionate lyrics but curiously has never been part of any concert setlist.
Its absence raises questions about how bands curate their performances around audience expectations versus artistic expression.
For many fans who cherish this track’s intensity and lyrical depth, hearing it performed live would undoubtedly be a memorable experience yet remains elusive.