AC/DC has seen miracles before — and lead singer Brian Johnson was one of them. When AC/DC — as unique a band as there ever was — was struck by the tragedy of losing its singular lead singer in 1980 (when original frontman Bon Scott died) it seemed nearly impossible to think the band could survive the blow. But not only did AC/DC survive, the band thrived with Johnson — while always giving proper respect to Scott and their origins.
Brian Johnson had been hoping for another AC/DC miracle after he was diagnosed with major hearing dysfunction. The band had to reschedule shows after Johnson was told by doctors that continuing to perform on stage would put him immediately at risk for “total hearing loss.” But the latest miracle never arrived — and Johnson had to leave the tour permanently, replaced by Guns N’ Roses belter Axl Rose. Johnson said his decision was based not just on his own health risk, but out of respect for fans and his bandmates. “Our fans deserve my performance to be at the highest level,” Johnson said, and his hearing problems compromised his ability to deliver.
