Brian Johnson Performs AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black’ With Muse at Reading Festival
When Brian Johnson announced he would be stepping down from AC/DC's Rock or Bust tour last year as he faced hearing issues, many fans feared he would never return to the stage again. The singer made a brief onstage cameo with Paul Rodgers and Robert Plant earlier this year and he stepped out under the lights with Muse over the weekend as they closed out the Reading Festival in England.
After performing "Take a Bow," Muse left the stage only to come back out for an encore with the iconic Johnson in tow. Together, they launched into the timeless AC/DC cut "Back in Black," and the singer was dressed for the occasion, covered from head to toe in black. Energized, Johnson prowled the stage with the same command he's demonstrated for over 35 years since replacing Bon Scott in 1980.
At risk of total hearing loss, Johnson was forced off the road with AC/DC in early 2016. It later came to light that fluids were eating away at the rocker's ear after he had been experiencing some hearing issues following a popped eardrum while in a race car. In an effort to get back onstage, the singer tried out new hearing technology which greatly reduced the risk of further damage while exposed to high volumes.
Since being sidelined from AC/DC, at least in a live capacity, Johnson was replaced by Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose. The legendary singer helped AC/DC to finish out their Rock or Bust tour commitments, experiencing a banner year between fronting the Australian rock powerhouse as well as continuing the '...Not in This Lifetime' tour with GN'R.
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