Kirriemuir’s legacy of riches left by its famous artistic sons is set to see the global spotlight shine on Angus again in the days and months ahead.
In the wee red town which has spent 2010 celebrating the 150th anniversary of Peter Pan creator J. M. Barrie, the focus is now about to turn to the opposite end of the artistic spectrum and what could well be considered the other side of the tracks.
But the enthusiasm will be no more diluted, the fans no less dedicated and the town no less proud.
The Kirrie connection of baker’s son Bon Scott stretches back much shorter than Barrie’s century and a half, but this year marks three decades since the lead singer of legendary rock band AC/DC died in a London hospital after being found unconscious in a car following a night of heavy partying.
Scott, just 33, had become part of one of music’s biggest success stories after his family emigrated to Australia where he joined Glasgow-born brothers Angus and Malcolm Young in the group.
AC/DC lived on beyond Scott and remain a massive force in rock music, but fans have never forgotten his place in the roots of the group, and nor has the town where he grew up.
This weekend local organisation DD8 Music will stage its fifth BonFest when AC/DC fans will again converge on Kirrie for a day of live music, culminating in a Town Hall tribute night headlined by Fife rockers Bon’s Balls.
The event is once again expected to attract a big influx of AC/DC fans for whom Kirrie has become a mecca, and the town museum has been able to stage a special anniversary tribute to the singer.
Collector Neil McDonald has loaned a host of rare memorabilia to the Gateway to the Glens attraction in the town square, celebrating Scott’s link with rock history.
The collection includes the vocalist’s award for UK sales of the single Highway to Hell, as well as a selection of rare singles and albums.
Running until the end of this year, the display is intended to be an introduction to a much more lavish celebration of the man, and his music, in what would have been his 65th birthday year in 2011.For more information, visit www.dd8music.com/bonscott.cfm