AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson has expressed his gratitude to the band’s fans in Sweden for their fund raising efforts in aid of the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
The bands’s guitarist Malcolm Young was forced to quit in 2014 after being diagnosed with dementia. He initially took a break from the band but when his illness was confirmed, he left permanently. Johnson posted a special online message for fans in Sweden yesterday, saying “Malcolm and I think what you’re doing to raise the awareness of everyone about this dreadful disease is just absolutely fabulous.”
A group of Swedish devotees is hosting a special AC/DC event named Acdcmachine Gathering 2017. The event will raise funds for Alzheimer’s disease research and prevention.
In the full audio statement the former frontman said: “I just want to say, I’m so proud of what you’re doing for the Alzheimer dementia research. As you know we have a wounded soldier, Malcolm and I think what you’re doing to raise the awareness of everyone about this dreadful disease is just absolutely fabulous.
“I know Malcolm would be so proud of you. I am and I want to thank you for doing this. We’ve tried to tell people about this awful disease, tried to get a cure for it. You guys are helping and I’m so proud of you.”
Johnson, himself was forced to leave the band due to health reason. He was replaced by Guns N’ Roses singer Axl Rose last March on the band’s recent ‘Rock Or Bust’ tour for U.S. and European dates after he was ordered by doctors to stop touring or face permanent hearing loss. He has since been working with specialists on a possible solution. According to Rolling Stone, he met with Stephen Ambrose, an in-ear technology specialist, and is hopeful that his work will improve his hearing loss.
Johnson did not address AC/DC’s future. Meanwhile, bassist Cliff Williams retired at the conclusion of the band’s recent world tour and drummer Phill Rudd was kicked off it following his conviction in 2015. He was replaced on the band’s recent world tour by Chris Slade.
A photo book from the tour by Ralph Larmann is expected to be released this year.
Picture Credit: Harry (Howard) Potts
