Brian Johnson was born on October 5, 1947, in Dunston, Gateshead, England. He grew up in a working-class family, and like many young boys in post-war Britain, he was influenced by the burgeoning rock and roll scene.
His father, Alan, was a sergeant major in the British Army’s Durham Light Infantry, while his mother, Esther, was Italian.
Johnson’s upbringing was marked by a blend of discipline from his father and cultural richness from his mother, which shaped his outlook on life and music.
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Musical Beginnings
Brian Johnson’s interest in music began at an early age. As a teenager, he was deeply inspired by the likes of Little Richard and Elvis Presley. He started his musical career in local bands, where he honed his skills as a vocalist.
In the late 1960s, Johnson joined a band called The Gobi Desert Canoe Club, which was his first foray into the music industry.
However, it was not until he became the lead singer of the glam rock band Geordie in 1971 that he began to gain wider recognition.
The Road to Recognition
Brian achieved moderate success in the UK, with several singles charting in the early 1970s. Johnson’s powerful voice and charismatic stage presence made him a standout performer. Brian’s music was a mix of glam rock and hard rock, which appealed to a wide audience.
Their hit singles like “All Because of You” and “Can You Do It” received significant airplay, and the band developed a loyal following.
However, despite their success, Geordie never reached the heights of other contemporary bands, and by the late 1970s, they had faded from the mainstream.
Joining AC/DC: A New Chapter
In 1980, after the tragic death of AC/DC’s original lead singer, Bon Scott, the band began searching for a new frontman.
Johnson’s powerful voice and dynamic performance style made him an ideal candidate. AC/DC’s founding members, Angus and Malcolm Young, were impressed by Johnson’s vocal ability and stage presence, which were evident in his work with Geordie.
Brian Johnson officially joined AC/DC in April 1980. His first task was to contribute to the band’s next album, which would become one of the most iconic in rock history.
“Back in Black” was released in July 1980 and became a massive success, catapulting both the band and Johnson to global stardom.
The album, which was a tribute to the late Bon Scott, featured hits like “Hells Bells,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and the title track “Back in Black.” It sold over 50 million copies worldwide and is one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Rise to International Fame
Brian Johnson’s tenure with AC/DC marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented success for the band. His unique vocal style, characterized by its gravelly tone and high pitch, became a defining element of AC/DC’s sound.
The band continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including For Those About to Rock “We Salute You” “1981”, Flick of the Switch “1983”, and “The Razor’s Edge” “1990”, which included the hit single “Thunderstruck.”
Johnson’s contribution to AC/DC extended beyond his vocal performances. He was also involved in the songwriting process, co-writing many of the band’s hits. His lyrical themes often revolved around rock and roll, partying, and defiance, which resonated with the band’s fan base.
Challenges and Return
In 2016, Brian Johnson faced a significant challenge in his career when he was advised to stop touring immediately or risk total hearing loss.
This forced him to step down from AC/DC’s Rock or Bust tour, a decision that was difficult for both Johnson and the band’s fans. Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses was brought in as a temporary replacement for the remainder of the tour.
However, Johnson did not give up. He sought medical treatment and worked with specialists to find a solution for his hearing issues.
In 2020, Johnson triumphantly returned to AC/DC to record the band’s 17th studio album, “Power Up”. The album was a commercial success, debuting at number one in multiple countries, proving that Johnson’s voice and spirit were as strong as ever.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his rock star persona, Brian Johnson has always been known for his down-to-earth nature. He has a passion for cars and is a keen race car driver, often participating in motorsport events.
Johnson is also the author of two autobiographical books: “Rockers and Rollers: A Full-Throttle Memoir” (2011), which details his love of cars, and “The Lives of Brian” (2021), where he shares more personal stories from his life and career.
Brian Johnson’s legacy is firmly cemented in the annals of rock history. His contribution to AC/DC has helped the band maintain its status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
With a career spanning over five decades, Johnson’s voice continues to inspire generations of rock musicians and fans alike.
Conclusion
Brian Johnson’s journey from a small town in England to the global stage with AC/DC is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and passion for music.
Despite facing significant challenges, including the potential loss of his hearing, Johnson has remained a symbol of resilience in the rock music world. His work with AC/DC continues to influence the genre, making him one of the most iconic frontmen in rock history.