AC/DC stormed Madison Square Garden in New York City on September 14, 2016, delivering a show that perfectly captured the raw energy, precision, and timeless appeal that have made them one of rock’s most legendary live acts. From the opening riff of Rock or Bust to the final salvo of For Those About to Rock (We Salute You), the band commanded the stage, thrilling fans with a mix of classic anthems and hard-hitting newer tracks.
A Legendary Rock Experience
Brian Johnson’s unmistakable vocals led the charge, his gritty voice cutting through the roar of the crowd with power and clarity. Angus Young’s guitar work was electrifying, combining blistering riffs with his signature stage antics, while Cliff Williams on bass and Phil Rudd on drums kept the band locked in with relentless precision. Every member of AC/DC demonstrated why they are a live powerhouse, balancing technical skill with a commanding presence that made the Garden feel like the epicenter of rock ’n’ roll.
The audience was fully engaged throughout the night, singing along, pumping fists, and moving to the relentless rhythms. Madison Square Garden provided a perfect venue for this high-octane performance, with every corner of the arena buzzing with energy, creating a collective experience that amplified the intensity of each song.
Setlist – AC/DC at Madison Square Garden, 2016
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Rock or Bust
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Shoot to Thrill
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Hell Ain’t a Bad Place to Be
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Back in Black
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Got Some Rock & Roll Thunder
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Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
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Rock ‘n’ Roll Damnation
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Thunderstruck
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High Voltage
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Rock ‘n’ Roll Train
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Hells Bells
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Givin the Dog a Bone
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If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)
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Live Wire
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Sin City
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You Shook Me All Night Long
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Shot Down in Flames
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Have a Drink on Me
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T.N.T.
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Whole Lotta Rosie
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Let There Be Rock (with Angus Young guitar solo)
Encore:
22. Highway to Hell
23. Riff Raff
24. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
Highlights from the Night
The show was packed with unforgettable moments, from the explosive opening of Rock or Bust to the crowd-shaking power of Thunderstruck. Classics like Back in Black, You Shook Me All Night Long, and Whole Lotta Rosie elicited massive sing-alongs, while tracks like High Voltage and Let There Be Rock showcased the band’s technical mastery and Angus Young’s electrifying solos. The encore brought the crowd to its peak, with Highway to Hell and For Those About to Rock leaving fans exhilarated and roaring for more.
The interaction between the band and the audience made the night feel intimate despite the arena’s size. Every chant, cheer, and clap was fed back by the band with intensity, creating a dialogue that elevated the experience beyond a simple concert into a shared celebration of rock ’n’ roll.
Closing Thoughts
AC/DC’s concert at Madison Square Garden on September 14, 2016, was a masterclass in live rock performance. From the relentless energy and precise musicianship to the crowd engagement and iconic stage presence, every element combined to create an unforgettable night. Fans left the venue exhilarated, energized, and reminded of why AC/DC continues to reign as one of rock’s most enduring and powerful live acts.