This Gibson SG seems to have been one of Angus Young’s go-to guitars during the Back in Black tour (1980/1981). He was frequently spotted with it from around 1980 to 1983. Notably, Angus played this guitar during the iconic Live at the Capital Centre performance in Landover, MD, on December 21, 1981, and again on October 5, 1983, for the Flick of the Switch promo videos and band rehearsals. It’s likely he picked up this SG in 1981.
Back In Black World Tour
In live photos from this era, Angus can be seen wielding this SG in its original “stock” condition. The guitar came from the factory with Super Humbucker pickups, boasting an output of around 7.5 kOhms—perfect for that punchy yet warm tone Angus is known for.
Interestingly, this guitar differs from earlier 1970s SG models in a couple of significant ways. First, the jack socket is positioned on the side of the body, rather than on the front alongside the control knobs. Second, the pickup selector switch is placed above the knobs, a subtle but functional design shift.
Flick Of The Switch Promotonials Videos & Rehearsals
This very SG makes another appearance in the Flick of the Switch promo videos and the band’s rehearsal footage. What’s intriguing is that the guitar’s tone in these sessions bears a striking resemblance to the sound on the Flick of the Switch album. It’s possible Angus used this guitar during the recording process, as the tones are almost identical.
Post-1981: A Less Prominent Role?
After 1981, this guitar doesn’t seem to have been used as extensively as during the Back In Black tour. It’s possible it was still in rotation, but it didn’t show up in as many photos from that time.
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