Colin Burgess — Rare Footage & Clips
The storied career of Colin Burgess, a drummer whose contributions to Australian rock music have left an indelible mark on history. Spanning over three decades, from 1946 to 2023, Burgess's tenure with two iconic bands – the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC – not only cemented his place in the annals of music but also underscored the significance of these groups within the broader context of rock 'n' roll.
The Masters Apprentices, formed in 1968, were one of Australia's earliest and most influential rock bands. With Burgess on drums, they achieved top 20 singles chart success with a string of hits, including "5:10 Man," "Think about Tomorrow Today," "Turn Up Your Radio," and "Because I Love You." These songs not only showcased the band's ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly tunes but also demonstrated their capacity for introspection and social commentary. Burgess's drumming was an integral component of this sound, providing a driving force behind the band's energetic live performances.
A pivotal clip from DeepCutsArchive captures the Masters Apprentices in concert during this period, with Burgess at the helm of the drums. The footage, while grainy by modern standards, still conveys the raw energy and enthusiasm that defined the band's live shows. Watching Burgess pound away on his kit, it becomes clear why he was an essential part of the Masters Apprentices' sound.
Burgess's tenure with AC/DC, albeit brief – from November 1973 to February 1974 – has become the stuff of legend. As one of the band's founding members, he played a crucial role in shaping their early sound and style. Unfortunately, due to internal conflicts and creative differences, his time with AC/DC was short-lived. However, this period remains significant, as it marked a critical juncture in the band's development.
A clip from DeepCutsArchive shows Burgess performing with AC/DC during this era, offering a glimpse into the band's early live performances. The footage is brief but revealing, highlighting the nascent stages of AC/DC's hard rock sound and Burgess's contribution to its development.
The Masters Apprentices' induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 1998 was a testament to their enduring influence on Australian music. This recognition not only acknowledged the band's contributions to the local scene but also underscored the significance of their work within the broader context of rock 'n' roll history. Burgess, as an integral part of this group, shared in this honor, cementing his place alongside other notable Australian musicians.
Burgess's collaboration with his brother Denny, on bass guitar and vocals, in various bands, including His Majesty, further highlights his dedication to music and willingness to experiment with different styles and genres. This aspect of his career may not have garnered the same level of attention as his work with the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC, but it remains an important part of his legacy.
The overlap between Burgess's work with the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC raises interesting questions about the evolution of Australian rock music during this period. Both bands were pioneering forces in their respective eras, pushing the boundaries of what was possible within the genre. The fact that Burgess played a significant role in both groups underscores his importance as a drummer and his ability to adapt to different musical contexts.
Burgess's influence on subsequent generations of Australian musicians cannot be overstated. His work with the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC has inspired countless others, from bands like Midnight Oil to more contemporary acts. As an artist who helped shape the sound of Australian rock music, Burgess's legacy extends far beyond his own performances.
The passing of Colin Burgess in 2023 marked the end of an era for Australian rock music. His contributions, though not always widely recognized outside of his native country, have left a lasting impact on the genre. As we reflect on his life and career, it becomes clear that Burgess was more than just a drummer – he was a key figure in the development of Australian rock music.
The significance of Burgess's work with both the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC cannot be overstated. These bands not only represented a critical juncture in Australian rock history but also played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of hard rock and heavy metal globally. Burgess, as an integral part of these groups, shared in this legacy, ensuring his place alongside other influential musicians from the era.
In conclusion to this introduction, it is clear that Colin Burgess's contributions to Australian rock music have left a lasting impact on history. His work with the Masters Apprentices and AC/DC has inspired countless others, cementing his place as one of the most important drummers in Australian rock history.
Curated from public records and music databases.
