On the Record: AC/DC’s Can I Sit Next to You, Girl / Rockin' in the Parlour (1974)

Before they became rock legends, AC/DC’s journey began with the release of their debut single, Can I Sit Next to You, Girl / Rockin' in the Parlour, in 1974. This rare Australian 7-inch vinyl captures a moment in the band’s history when their future was still uncertain, and it remains one of the most collectible records for AC/DC fans around the world.

The Single: A Glimpse at AC/DC’s Early Days

• Release Date: 1974
• Label: Albert Productions
• Lineup: Featuring Dave Evans on vocals, this was AC/DC’s first recorded single, before Bon Scott joined the band and helped shape their signature sound.

A-Side: "Can I Sit Next to You, Girl"
B-Side: "Rockin' in the Parlour"

What Makes This Record So Special?

1. AC/DC’s First-Ever Release:

   • Can I Sit Next to You, Girl was AC/DC’s debut single, offering a snapshot of the band before they became one of the most iconic rock acts in history. This version of the track, featuring original vocalist Dave Evans, was re-recorded in 1975 after Bon Scott took over, making this pressing a unique piece of AC/DC’s early history.
   • The B-side, Rockin' in the Parlour, is another rarity, as it is a track that was never re-recorded after Evans left the band.

2. Limited Pressing:

   • The single was pressed in extremely limited quantities and was only released in Australia, where the band was still relatively unknown. This makes original copies hard to come by, especially in mint condition, and explains its value in the collectors' market.

3. Historical Significance:

   • After Bon Scott replaced Dave Evans as the lead singer in 1974, AC/DC’s sound evolved dramatically. This single represents a transitional moment for the band before they solidified their hard-rocking identity. For fans, it’s a glimpse into the raw energy that would soon propel them to worldwide fame.

4. Valuable for Collectors:

   • Due to its rarity and importance in AC/DC’s discography, mint-condition copies of this single have been known to sell for over $4,000. Its value continues to rise, especially as AC/DC’s legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time continues to grow.

Why Collectors Crave This Record

• Historical Value: Owning the debut single of a band like AC/DC is a dream for collectors, especially since this record features a lineup that was short-lived but crucial in the band's early formation. It's a significant artifact from the birth of one of rock’s greatest acts.

• Unique Sound: The Dave Evans version of "Can I Sit Next to You, Girl" differs in style and energy from the Bon Scott re-recording. This adds to its mystique as a version that stands apart from the band’s later, more well-known sound.

• Limited Availability: Because it was only pressed in small quantities in Australia, original copies are extremely hard to find outside of the country, making it a coveted item for international collectors.

The Story Behind the Record

Can I Sit Next to You, Girl was recorded during a time when AC/DC was still finding its footing. The single’s release through Albert Productions was an early push to introduce the band to the Australian rock scene. Not long after its release, AC/DC’s direction would change forever with the introduction of Bon Scott as the lead vocalist.

The original version of the single, featuring Dave Evans’ glam rock-influenced vocals, was more aligned with early 70s rock than the gritty, blues-based hard rock AC/DC would later perfect. While this track didn’t achieve immediate success, it laid the foundation for what would soon become a rock 'n' roll juggernaut.

Conclusion

AC/DC’s Can I Sit Next to You, Girl / Rockin' in the Parlour (1974) represents a defining moment in the band’s early history. This rare vinyl is a must-have for dedicated AC/DC fans and collectors, capturing the band before their meteoric rise. As one of the most valuable and sought-after Australian records, it stands as a testament to the humble beginnings of a band that would soon conquer the world.

Do you own any rare AC/DC vinyl, or are you searching for this elusive debut single? Let us know in the comments below!