Watch AC/DC New Documentary ‘Exploring AC/DC’s Forgotten Sydney: Lost Landmarks Of Rock History’

A new 30-minute documentary by veteran video producer Tom Compagnoni shines a light on the often-overlooked and rapidly disappearing historical landmarks tied to the formative years of global rock icons AC/DC in their city of origin. Titled “Exploring AC/DC’s Forgotten Sydney: Lost Landmarks Of Rock History,” the film takes viewers on a personal journey to uncover these significant sites, many of which face neglect or have already been demolished.

Compagnoni, with nearly two decades of experience creating content for prominent Australian media outlets, contrasts Sydney’s treatment of its biggest cultural export with how other cities, like Liverpool with The Beatles, cherish and preserve their musical heritage. His documentary serves as both a rock history tour and a poignant commentary on the preservation of cultural memory.

In “Exploring AC/DC’s Forgotten Sydney,” Compagnoni visits crucial early locations such as Chequers nightclub where AC/DC played their first show, the Newtown rehearsal room where the band took shape, the Young brothers’ childhood home in Burwood (since bulldozed for new development), pioneering recording locations like EMI 301 and Albert Studios, and even Malcolm Young‘s final resting place.

The official description for the documentary, shared by Tom Compagnoni, elaborates on his mission: “AC/DC are one of the biggest rock bands of all time — and they were born in Sydney. While Burwood Council has recently commissioned a fantastic mural honouring Angus and Malcolm Young, across the rest of the city there are still no statues, plaques, or major recognitions of the band’s legacy. In fact, some of the most significant landmarks tied to their story are being neglected — or even demolished.”

He adds: “In this documentary, I go on a personal journey across Sydney to uncover the forgotten landmarks of AC/DC‘s history… Along the way, I reflect on how Sydney’s treatment of AC/DC compares to the way other cities celebrate their rock icons… Whether you’re a hardcore AC/DC fan or simply love music history, this deep dive uncovers stories, places, and sounds that deserve to be remembered.” The full documentary is available to watch below.

The film’s exploration is particularly resonant given the changes within AC/DC over the years. Co-founder and rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young passed away in 2017 at age 64 from the effects of dementia, which had forced his retirement from the band in 2014. His nephew, Stevie Young, stepped into his formidable role.

Today, lead guitarist Angus Young stands as the sole remaining original member of AC/DC. He continues to tour and record, leading a lineup that includes Stevie Young, longtime vocalist Brian Johnson, drummer Matt Laug, and bassist Chris Chaney. Angus had previously noted that he realized Malcolm‘s faculties were becoming impaired during the recording of their 2008 album, Black Ice.

Compagnoni‘s documentary serves as a timely call to acknowledge and preserve the physical roots of one of rock and roll’s most influential bands before more of Sydney’s AC/DC heritage is lost to time and development.