The Age Of These Rockstars When They Wrote Their First Hit

Age is no barrier to greatness.

Musicians embark on their artistic journeys, and sometimes, their most influential works are created at a surprisingly young age. Let’s explore how old some of your favorite rockers were when they recorded their groundbreaking hits.

AC/DC – “Back in Black” (Ages 25-32)

AC/DC’s iconic album “Back in Black” was a monumental achievement. At the time of its release in 1980, Brian Johnson (singer) was 32, Angus Young (guitarist) was 25, and Malcolm Young (guitarist) was 27. The band’s rhythm section, Cliff Williams (bassist) and Phil Rudd (drummer), were 30 and 26, respectively.

Black Sabbath – “Black Sabbath” (20 and 21)

Black Sabbath’s debut album in 1970 marked the birth of heavy metal. Surprisingly, Ozzy Osbourne and Geezer Butler (singer and bassist) were both 20, while Tony Iommi and Bill Ward (guitarist and drummer) were 21 during its recording in October 1969.

Kurt Cobain – Nirvana’s “Nevermind” (24)

Kurt Cobain’s iconic song “Smells Like Teen Spirit” from Nirvana’s “Nevermind” album took shape when he was 23. The song marked a pivotal moment in alternative rock and catapulted Cobain into the spotlight, influencing the genre’s trajectory.

Rob Halford – Judas Priest’s “Screaming for Vengeance” (30)

Rob Halford, Judas Priest’s legendary singer, was 30 when the band released “Screaming for Vengeance” in 1982. Despite reaching this milestone age, it was Halford’s eighth studio album with the band, showcasing his enduring impact.

Jimi Hendrix – The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s “Are You Experienced” (23)

Jimi Hendrix, the guitar virtuoso, recorded “Are You Experienced” at the age of 23. The album, released in 1967, solidified Hendrix’s place in rock history and is often hailed as one of the greatest guitar albums.

Metallica – “Master of Puppets” (21, 22, 23)

Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” stands as a metal classic, showcasing the band’s mastery at an early age. James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett (frontman and guitarist) were 22, Lars Ulrich (drummer) was 21, and Cliff Burton (bassist) was 23 during the album’s recording in 1985.

Dave Mustaine – Megadeth’s “Rust in Peace” (28)

Dave Mustaine, nearing 30, proved age is no limit to creating a thrash metal masterpiece. “Rust in Peace,” Megadeth’s acclaimed album, was recorded when Mustaine was 28, demonstrating his enduring influence.

Eddie Van Halen – Van Halen’s “Eruption” (22)

Eddie Van Halen, a guitar prodigy, recorded the influential guitar solo “Eruption” at the age of 22. Featured on Van Halen’s 1978 self-titled album, the solo remains a timeless showcase of Van Halen’s raw guitar power.