Here's a comparison based on some key indicators of popularity:
Record Sales:
- AC/DC: AC/DC has sold over 200 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. Their albums "Back in Black" (1980) and "Highway to Hell" (1979) are among the best-selling albums in history.
- Van Halen: Van Halen has sold over 80 million albums worldwide, making them one of the most successful hard rock bands of all time. Their self-titled debut album (1978) and albums like "1984" (1984) and "5150" (1986) were commercial successes.
Concert Attendance:
- AC/DC: AC/DC is renowned for their electrifying live performances and has consistently drawn large crowds throughout their career. They hold the record for the highest-grossing tour in history with their "Rock or Bust" world tour (2015-16), which grossed over $441 million.
- Van Halen: Van Halen was also a popular live act, known for their energetic performances and guitar virtuoso Eddie Van Halen's electrifying solos. Their tour in support of the album "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" (1991) was one of the highest-grossing tours of the year.
Cultural Impact:
- AC/DC: AC/DC's music has had a profound influence on rock music and pop culture. Their songs are frequently featured in movies, television shows, and video games, and they have inspired numerous other artists. Their distinctive sound and iconic songs have become synonymous with rock music.
- Van Halen: Van Halen also left a significant mark on rock music, particularly with their contributions to the development of hard rock and heavy metal. Eddie Van Halen's groundbreaking guitar techniques and innovative playing style made him one of the most influential guitarists of all time.
Longevity:
- AC/DC: AC/DC has been actively performing and releasing music since the 1970s, with a consistent lineup featuring lead singer Brian Johnson and rhythm guitarist Angus Young. Their enduring popularity and ability to maintain their musical relevance over several decades is a testament to their enduring appeal.
- Van Halen: Van Halen had a successful run from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, but their lineup experienced several changes and hiatuses over the years. Despite their success, their career was marked by periods of instability and internal conflicts.
Overall, while both AC/DC and Van Halen have achieved significant success and have made indelible contributions to rock music, it's challenging to definitively declare one band as more popular. Both bands have strong fan bases and have left lasting legacies in the music industry.