AC/DC’s Angus Young speaks up about retirement, Malcolm Young’s health, Axl Rose and final world tour

AC/DC lead guitarist Angus Young has delivered bittersweet news to the band’s fans. The Australian rock band is set to play in Atlanta, US, on Sep. 1 but it could be one of their final performances.

AC/DC was due to have their “Rock Or Bust” concert tour starting on Aug. 27 but had to reschedule as lead singer Brian Johnson was advised to take a break or risk permanent hearing loss. But now it’s not only Johnson who faces health problems, as other band members are also facing the effects of their age.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, AC/DC guitarist Angus Young talks about a possible retirement for the band.

“Somebody once commented, ‘From a distance, he looks quite youthful.’ It’s only when you get up close that you can see the weathered look,” the 61-year-old guitarist remarked.

Indeed, the AC/DC members don’t look as youthful as they did when their iconic band first brought waves to the rock and roll industry more than four decades ago.

Despite their age, Young leads his band to their possibly final world tour, which ends Sep. 20 in Philadelphia.

Young spoke as candidly as he could about the severe hearing problems that plagued lead singer Brian Johnson and that eventually forced him to retire from touring. Guns N’ Roses vocalist Axl Rose was offered to fill in.

Things don't look too good for the band with drummer Phil Rudd parting ways, lead singer Brian Johnson leaving due to hearing problems, bassist Cliff Williams announcing his retirement and Angus' older brother and band co-founder Malcolm Young suffering from dementia.

“I do pass on messages. I can’t be 100 percent sure it goes in there.” Angus shared about the hardship of communicating with Malcolm. “But I let him know there are a lot of people missing him.”

On the bright side, Young seemed happy to have Axl Rose at the mic for future projects.

“He’s been really good. He prepares himself, ready to go. We sit and chew the fat before we get on, work out what songs we want to do. It’s gotta be fun for hi, and for us”.

AC/DC is set to perform in Atlanta, US, on Sep. 1.