Brian Johnson Releases Statement Regarding AC/DC Departure.
Johnson led AC/DC for 36 years after replacing the late Bon Scott in 1980, releasing ten albums with the Australian rock legends. As previously announced, Johnson has been replaced for the remainder of their international tour by none other than Axl Rose. He issued a statement today on his shocking exit, outlining his hearing troubles and the prospect of being completely deaf.
As many AC/DC fans are aware, the remaining dates on the 2016 AC/DC Rock or Bust World Tour, including ten postponed U.S. shows, are being rescheduled with a guest singer. I’d want to explain why I believe the earlier press statements did not adequately express what I intended to say to our fans or how I thought it should be presented
On March 7th, following a series of evaluations by prominent experts in the field of hearing loss, I was told that if I continued to perform in huge settings, I risked losing my hearing completely. While I was frightened by the news that day, I had become aware for some time that my partial hearing loss was interfering with my theatrical performance. I was having trouble hearing the guitars on stage, and I was concerned that my performance might suffer as a result.
In all honesty, I couldn’t in good conscience allow this. Our fans want me to produce the best performance possible, and if for whatever reason I am unable to do so, I will not disappoint them or shame the other members of AC/DC. I am not a quitter, and I want to finish what I start; but, the doctors informed me and my bandmates that I had no choice but to stop performing on stage for the remaining gigs, and probably longer. That was the worst day of my working life.
Since that day, I’ve had several consultations with my doctors, and it appears that, in the near future, I will be unable to perform on stage at arena and stadium-sized venues with sound levels that exceed my current tolerance, without risking significant hearing loss and possibly total deafness. Until that point, I did my best to continue despite the pain and hearing loss, but it was just too much to bear and risk.
This development has shattered me more than anyone could have possibly imagined. The emotional sensation I’m having right now is worse than anything I’ve ever felt before. Being a member of AC/DC, making recordings, and playing for millions of devoted fans over the last 36 years has been my life’s work. I can’t image going forward without being a part of it, but I don’t have a choice right now. One thing is certain: I will always be with AC/DC at every event, even if not in person.
Most importantly, I’m sorry to disappoint the fans who purchased tickets for the cancelled gigs and have consistently supported me and AC/DC over the years. Words cannot describe my deepest gratitude and appreciation, not only for the recent outpouring of nice words and good wishes to me personally, but also for AC/DC’s years of devoted support. My gratitude also goes to Angus and Cliff for their assistance.
Finally, I’d like to tell our fans that I am not retiring. My doctors have assured me that I can continue to record in studios, and I plan to do so. At the present, my sole emphasis is on continuing medical treatment to improve my hearing. I’m expecting that my hearing will improve over time, allowing me to return to live concerts. While the outcome is uncertain, I remain optimistic. Only time will tell.
Once again, my most best wishes and gratitude to everyone for their support and understanding.