Brian Johnson: The Voice of AC/DC

Brian Johnson, the raspy-voiced frontman who revitalized AC/DC after tragedy struck, is a rock and roll legend. Born in Dunston, Tyne and Wear, England, in 1947, Johnson’s musical journey began long before he roared onto the international stage. He honed his craft in the British glam rock scene, fronting the band Geordie, who enjoyed moderate success in the early 1970s. While Geordie never reached the heights of stardom, Johnson’s powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence were undeniable.

However, it was in 1980 that Johnson’s life changed forever. Following the untimely death of AC/DC’s iconic vocalist, Bon Scott, the band faced an uncertain future. Devastated by the loss of their friend and bandmate, Angus and Malcolm Young embarked on the difficult task of finding a replacement. A fan mentioned Johnson’s name, recalling his performance with Geordie years prior, and noted that Scott himself had admired Johnson’s singing style. Intrigued, the Young brothers invited Johnson to audition.

The audition was a resounding success. Johnson’s raw energy, bluesy inflection, and remarkable vocal range perfectly complemented AC/DC’s hard-driving sound. He captured the spirit of Bon Scott while simultaneously bringing his own unique flair to the band. Within days, Johnson was announced as AC/DC’s new lead singer, a decision that would prove to be one of the most pivotal moments in rock history.

Just months after Scott’s death, AC/DC released Back in Black, an album dedicated to his memory. With Johnson’s electrifying vocals, the album became an instant classic and a monumental commercial success, selling over 50 million copies worldwide and cementing AC/DC’s place as one of the biggest rock bands on the planet. Songs like “Hells Bells,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and the title track became anthems for generations.

Johnson continued to front AC/DC for over three decades, recording numerous successful albums and touring the world relentlessly. His signature flat cap became an iconic part of his stage persona, adding to his down-to-earth and relatable image. He battled hearing problems throughout his career, and in 2016, was forced to temporarily step down from touring due to severe hearing loss. Despite this setback, his unwavering passion for music remained. He worked on other projects, including hosting a television show, “Brian Johnson: A Life on the Road,” where he interviewed fellow rock legends.

In 2020, to the delight of fans worldwide, Brian Johnson officially rejoined AC/DC. He contributed vocals to their album Power Up, proving that even after facing adversity, his voice still possessed the power and energy that made him a rock icon. Brian Johnson’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and the enduring power of rock and roll. He is more than just a singer; he is the voice of AC/DC, a symbol of resilience, and a true rock and roll legend.