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The 1980 AC/DC song written by the devil: “I kept the light on all night”
The article examines AC/DC’s ‘Hells Bells’, the opening track of 1980’s *Back in Black*, through Brian Johnson’s account that its lyrics seemed to arrive in a sudden, unsettling burst of inspiration. The “written by the devil” description is presented as Johnson’s own colourful recollection rather than a literal claim, and underscores the pressure on the band as it rebuilt after former singer Bon Scott’s death.
Johnson said he did not believe in God, heaven or hell, but recalled staying awake all night in a sparse room with a bottle of whisky and writing without stopping, as though his hand were possessed. Recorded in the Bahamas, ‘Hells Bells’ became a tribute to Scott and introduced an album that went on to become one of rock’s most commercially successful records.
In short
- Brian Johnson recalled writing ‘Hells Bells’ in a frightening burst of inspiration.
- The song opened AC/DC’s comeback after Bon Scott’s death.
- ‘Hells Bells’ became a defining track from *Back in Black*.
Explained simply
"Hells Bells" is the opening track on AC/DC's 1980 album "Back in Black", one of rock's most commercially successful records. The song's creation has gained attention through singer Brian Johnson's account of how he came to write it.
AC/DC faced a significant challenge when their previous singer, Bon Scott, died in early 1980. Johnson was brought in as his replacement, and the band had to rebuild during a period of grief. Johnson has recounted writing "Hells Bells" in an intense state, staying awake through the night with only whisky, whilst the lyrics seemed to flow from him without conscious effort.
Though Johnson himself does not believe in God, heaven or hell, the song became a tribute to Scott and contributed to "Back in Black's" commercial success. His description of the songwriting process, using language that suggests supernatural inspiration, demonstrates how personal circumstances can shape artistic creation.