INDIO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 07: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) (L-R) Stevie Young, Brian Johnson, Angus Young, and Cliff Williams of AC/DC perform onstage during the Power Trip music festival at Empire Polo Club on October 07, 2023 in Indio, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Power Trip)

In the world of rock ‘n’ roll, few bands command as much reverence and respect as AC/DC. With their blistering riffs, powerhouse vocals, and electrifying stage presence, they have cemented their status as icons of the genre. However, even rock gods are not immune to the challenges that come with the rigors of touring, as evidenced by the events that unfolded during their “Rock or Bust” tour in 2016.

On March 7, 2016, AC/DC was faced with a devastating setback when doctors delivered the crushing news to lead vocalist Brian Johnson: he was at risk of completely losing his hearing if he continued to perform live. Forced to prioritize Johnson’s health and well-being, the band made the difficult decision to reschedule the remaining ten dates of their tour.

For fans around the world, the news was a gut-wrenching blow. AC/DC’s live performances are legendary for their energy and intensity, and the prospect of losing Johnson’s unmistakable voice was a sobering reminder of the fragility of human existence. Yet, amidst the disappointment, there was also an outpouring of support and solidarity from fans, who rallied behind the band in their time of need.

Despite the setback, AC/DC refused to let adversity get the better of them. Determined to fulfill their commitments to their fans, they embarked on a search for a temporary replacement for Johnson. Their choice? None other than Axl Rose, the enigmatic frontman of Guns N’ Roses and a rock icon in his own right.

The announcement of Rose’s involvement in the tour sent shockwaves through the music world, sparking both excitement and skepticism among fans. Yet, as the tour resumed and Rose took the stage alongside Angus Young and the rest of AC/DC, any doubts were quickly dispelled. Rose proved to be a formidable frontman, delivering electrifying performances that honoured the band’s legacy while injecting his own unique flair.

For AC/DC, the decision to bring in Rose was not just about salvaging the tour; it was a testament to the camaraderie and brotherhood that defines the rock ‘n’ roll community. In a world where egos often clash and rivalries abound, the band’s willingness to support one another in times of need served as a powerful reminder of the bonds that unite musicians and fans alike.

As the “Rock or Bust” tour drew to a close, AC/DC emerged stronger and more resilient than ever. Though the road may have been fraught with challenges, they proved that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll cannot be silenced, even in the face of adversity. Their determination, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to their craft serve as an inspiration to us all, reminding us that, in the end, it’s the music that truly matters.