Current Age and Basic Biography of Brian Johnson
Brian Johnson is currently 72 years old, having been born on October 5, 1947, in Dunston, Gateshead, England. He is best known as the lead singer of the hard rock band AC DC, a role he has held since 1980. Johnson replaced original vocalist Bon Scott after Scott's death and has fronted the band for over four decades. His distinct voice and energetic performances have helped define the sound of classic AC DC albums such as "Back in Black" and "For Those About to Rock We Salute You."
Johnson's career in music began long before he joined AC DC. He was the lead vocalist for the band Geordie, which achieved several hits in the UK during the 1970s. After Geordie disbanded, he was discovered by AC DC's Malcolm Young and auditioned for the band. His first album with AC DC, "Highway to Hell," released in 1979, became a massive commercial success and established the band as a global rock powerhouse. Johnson's tenure with the band has made him one of the most recognizable voices in rock history.
Health Challenges and Temporary Retirement from Touring
In 2016, Johnson was forced to stop touring after he was diagnosed with significant hearing loss, a condition he developed after years of exposure to loud music without adequate protection. Medical specialists advised him that continuing to perform on stage at high volumes could lead to total deafness. This diagnosis led to the band temporarily parting ways with Johnson and hiring vocalist Axl Rose for the remaining dates of their Rock or Bust tour. The situation highlighted the severe occupational hazards faced by musicians in the rock industry.
Despite the severity of his condition, Johnson has not retired from music entirely. He has collaborated with audiologists and audio engineers to develop specialized in-ear monitors that allow him to perform safely. In 2020, he confirmed that he had received a cochlear implant in one ear, which significantly improved his hearing ability. This medical intervention has allowed him to participate in studio recordings and select live appearances, though he has been cautious about full-scale touring schedules. For more details on hearing protection in the music industry, refer to the research published by the House Research Institute here.
Recent Activities and Legacy with AC DC
In recent years, Johnson has focused on studio work and legacy projects rather than extensive live performances. AC DC released the album "Power Up" in 2020, which featured Johnson alongside the Young brothers and featured a return to the band's classic lineup. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating the enduring popularity of the band. Johnson has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, supporting organizations focused on hearing research and music education for young people.
Johnson's influence on rock music is widely recognized by industry bodies and fans alike. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 as a member of AC DC. The band's global record sales exceed 200 million, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. His vocal style has been cited as a major influence by numerous contemporary rock and metal vocalists. For a comprehensive overview of the band's commercial impact, see the latest financial analysis on Forbes here.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who is the current lead singer of AC DC?
The current lead singer of AC DC is Brian Johnson. He has been the band's frontman since 1980, following the death of the original singer Bon Scott. Johnson remains the primary vocalist for the band's studio albums