In this paper, the author assumes that the Australian rock band AC/DC has been performing for over forty years. Some of the band’s famous songs include the headbanging ‘Highway to Hell’ and ‘You Shook Me All Night Long. ’ However, the band and specifically Angus Young have been known to be less active in recent years, with fans asking themselves whether the band will embark on a tour again.
The last big tour of AC/DC occurred in 2016 under Rock or Bust World Tour. Over Europe and North America, the band performed at stadiums and several events during this trip. It was done for their 2014 album, Rock or Bust, which included lead guitarist and founding member of the group Malcolm Young absent. The tour was a great success and AC/DC became among the top live bands in the annals of rock music.
The band had a lot of obstacles, hence the second part of the trip turned out to be worse. First of all, it was said in April 2016 that Brian Johnson, a lead vocalist, would totally lose his hearing capacity. Doctors told him to cease traveling because he may go deaf. As the latter sought treatment for his condition, Guns N' Roses lead vocalist Axl Rose temporarily covered Johnson's vocals for the remaining tour dates.
Drummer Phil Rudd was replaced on the tour later in 2016 because of his house detention in New Zealand. Losing nearly half of its legendary lineup caused several fans and pundits to wonder if this would mean that AC/DC's touring days would soon be gone.
AC/DC has been pretty quiet in terms of performances and albums since the conclusion of their big 2016 tour. Sadly, Malcolm Young, the rhythm guitarist of the group founded along with his brother Angus Young, passed away in 2020. There were constant rumors about group members' illnesses or conflicts. For those who are looking forward to comeback, however, there appears to be hope at the end of the tunnel.
After seeking medical treatment from a specialist in 2018, singer Brian Johnson claimed that he had fully recovered from his hearing problems. This event fueled rumors that he and Angus Young could consider returning to assemble AC/DC for a new record and concert. There have been speculations that something might be brewing between them since photos emerged showing Johnson and Young in Vancouver in 2019. Phil Rudd and Cliff Williams have also said they might be willing to get on the stage again.
Later, in early 2022, indications arose that an AC/DC comeback could be imminent. New information has surfaced that the band has set up recording sessions in Vancouver during the summer. They were also reported to have planned for rehearsals in the same city in the later part of the year, perhaps preparing for a tour.
Sources familiar with AC/DC’s strategy have speculated that the band may release an album to commemorate the 40 years since the Back in Black record. Some put it on a small tour in 2023 or 2024. This could see them perform a few shows on only a few stations around the world. To date, no official statement has been made by the band or the management. There is optimism that these rock icons could make their way to the stage again soon enough.
Of course, with AC/DC now all over 60 years old, health issues could further complicate their touring plans. It may not be possible to get them to start rigorous hundred-date world tours as it has been done in the past years. Of course, even if they are going to be somewhat picky about their future live performances, they are going to attract a tremendous amount of attention. AC/DC performing is an energetic sight that fans will go the distance to see on stage.
For the time being, fans are searching the web for any signs of either potential tour dates or setlists. Will they go for some of the gems that they have in their rich discography? Will some new songs are not expected? And can Angus Young continue to perform those iconic movements as he riffs the Gibson SG guitar wearing a schoolboy uniform? The rock world waits to see this happen.
At a time when the band is set to start its fifth decade, AC/DC continues to stir massive interest among fans of all age groups. This feel-good hard rock appeals to multiple generations, which is why it resonates with their target audience. Despite the difficulties that occurred during the last tour, the chemistry between Angus, Brian, Cliff, and Phil is undeniable. With some luck and precaution towards their health, the opportunity could come knocking and take one of rock's greatest live artists on stage once again soon.
Thus, although specifics are still unclear, indications are that AC/DC will regroup for some degree of touring sometime shortly. Whether it turns out to be a short side trip or the concert tour to beat all concert tours, fans can sleep easy knowing that Angus Young and Compan & Roy never run out of ways to surprise and delight us. The AC/DC ticket buying frenzy is also expected to start as soon as concrete plans for a tour are expected to happen. For now, loyal fans sit tight, waiting to boogie when the chords of ‘Hells Bells’ sound once more. Soon it will be time once again to enjoy the raw energy, showmanship, and grandeur that come with an AC/DC concert. Let there be rock!