Who Made Who

The Zoo Crew is spinning the electrifying track "Who Made Who" by AC/DC, from the album of the same name, and Zoo Freaks are surely rocking out to its raw energy. This song, released on May 24, 1986, as the soundtrack for Stephen King’s film Maximum Overdrive, carries a unique place in AC/DC’s catalog. According to a post from the band’s official X account on May 12, 2021, the single marked a significant milestone, becoming their first Top 20 hit in the UK in over five years, reaching #16 on May 31, 1986. The track was accompanied by a distinctive release in formats like 7”, 12”, and a shaped picture disc, adding to its collectible allure for fans. Interestingly, a fan named Anthony from New York shared on Songfacts that he once heard a rare version of the song with a 2-3 second guitar intro, possibly a promotional or special mix, which he’s been unable to find since. Another fan, Jimblor from Antarctica, speculated on the same site that the lyrics might subtly question whether AC/DC propelled Brian Johnson to fame or if Johnson elevated the band post-Bon Scott, though he admitted it might just be a fun rock anthem not meant for overanalysis.

Delving deeper into the song’s creation, AC/DC’s X post from May 25, 2023, shared Angus Young discussing how the Who Made Who album came about. The band was approached by Stephen King, a massive fan who even sang along to “Ain’t No Fun” from Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap to prove his devotion. King wanted AC/DC to craft a soundtrack for Maximum Overdrive, leading to the inclusion of “Who Made Who” alongside tracks like “D.T.” and “Chase The Ace,” specifically written for the film. The soundtrack also featured classics like “Hells Bells” and “You Shook Me All Night Long,” blending new and old to capture the movie’s chaotic vibe. This collaboration highlighted AC/DC’s ability to merge their hard rock roots with cinematic storytelling, creating a song that’s both a standalone banger and a nod to King’s horror universe.

AC/DC began their legendary journey in Sydney, Australia, in November 1973, founded by Scottish-born brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Inspired by their sister Margaret, who spotted the term “AC/DC” (alternating current/direct current) on a sewing machine, the brothers chose the name to reflect their high-voltage performance style. Their iconic schoolboy uniform, worn by Angus, was also Margaret’s idea, cementing their rebellious image. The band’s early lineup included vocalist Dave Evans, drummer Colin Burgess, and bassist Larry Van Kriedt, with their first gig at Chequers nightclub on December 31, 1973. Despite initial struggles with a glam rock image that didn’t resonate, they shifted to a harder blues-rock sound under manager Michael Browning. By 1974, Bon Scott joined as frontman, bringing a gritty edge that propelled them to Australian fame with albums like T.N.T. (1975). After Scott’s tragic death in 1980, Brian Johnson stepped in, and the release of Back in Black (1980) skyrocketed them to global stardom, selling over 50 million units worldwide.

Today, AC/DC remains a titan in rock, with over 200 million records sold and a 2003 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Fans can stay connected through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share tour updates, music videos, and throwbacks like the “Who Made Who” story. Dedicated fan communities thrive online, including the AC/DC Fanpage in Germany, which offers news and updates, and ACDCfans.net, a forum for diehards to discuss everything from rare vinyl to concert experiences. On Facebook, groups like “AC/DC Fans” and “AC/DC Worldwide” unite Zoo Freaks and others, sharing memes, bootlegs, and tributes to the band’s enduring legacy.