STAGE FINALE WON’T HUSH AC/DC SINGER
AC/DC singer Brian Johnson says he’s not retiring from music after doctors told him he risks substantial hearing loss if he continues to perform in large arenas and stadiums.
Johnson said in a statement released through his publicist on Tuesday that he intends to continue to record in studios and will continue treatment to improve his hearing. Guns N’ Roses singer Axl Rose will replace Johnson for the Rock or Bust World Tour beginning May 7 in Lisbon.
In the statement released by Sony Music, Johnson said:
“On March 7th, after a series of examinations by leading physicians in the field of hearing loss, I was advised that if I continue to perform at large venues, I risked total deafness … I am not a quitter and I like to finish what I start; nevertheless, the doctors made it clear to me and my bandmates that I had no choice but to stop performing on stage for the remaining shows and possibly beyond. That was the darkest day of my professional life.
“Since that day, I have had several consultations with my doctors and it appears that, for the near future, I will be unable to perform on stage at arena and stadium size venues where the sound levels are beyond my current tolerance, without the risk of substantial hearing loss and possibly total deafness.
“I am personally crushed by this development more than anyone could ever imagine. The emotional experience I feel now is worse than anything I have ever in my life felt before. Being part of AC/DC, making records and performing for the millions of devoted fans this past 36 years has been my life’s work. I cannot imagine going forward without being part of that, but for now I have no choice.
“Finally, I wish to assure our fans that I am not retiring. My doctors have told me that I can continue to record in studios and I intend to do that. For the moment, my entire focus is to continue medical treatment to improve my hearing. I am hoping that in time my hearing will improve and allow me to return to live concert performances. While the outcome is uncertain, my attitude is optimistic. Only time will tell.”