AC/DC’s drummer Colin Burgess dies aged 77 as the band pay tribute to the ‘very respected musician’

Original AC/DC drummer Colin Burgess has passed away.

The band announced on Saturday that the musician had passed away and paid tribute to the 'highly respected' musician. He was 77 years old.

His cause of death is unknown.

The band's heartfelt statement read: 'Very sad to hear of the passing of Colin Burgess. He was our first drummer and a highly respected musician. Happy memories, rest in peace Colin.'

The band's heartfelt statement read: 'Very sad to hear of the passing of Colin Burgess. He was our first drummer and a highly respected musician. Happy memories, rock in peace Colin

The original members of the band were vocalist Dave Evans, bassist Larry Van Kriedt, drummer Colin, lead guitarist Angus Young and rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young.

Their biggest song worldwide was Highway to Hell, which reached number 17 in the United States and number eight in the United Kingdom.

Other successful albums were Back in Black and For Those About to Rock We Salute You.

Colin joined the band in 1973, but was fired a year later for being drunk on stage. He later claimed that someone had spiked his drink.

The drummer was replaced by a series of drummers before Phil Rudd joined in 1975.

Colin stepped in temporarily when Phil damaged his work for a few weeks that year.

In a twist of fate, Colin was at The Music Factory in London the night Bon Scott died in February 1980, and was one of the last people to speak to him before he left the club.

AC/DC have sold more than 200 million records worldwide and have built a reputation as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

The original members of the band were vocalist Dave Evans, bassist Larry Van Kriedt, drummer Colin, lead guitarist Angus Young and rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young (photo 2002)

AC/DC sold over 200 million records (L-R) Bassist Cliff Williams, rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young, Angus Young, drummer Simon Wright and singer Brian Johnson (1983)