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AC/DC’s Brian Johnson reveals hearing loss was caused by bout of flu
AC/DC singer Brian Johnson has said that his hearing loss was caused by a bout of flu, rather than solely by years of performing loud rock music. The disclosure adds personal context to the health issue that forced him to stop touring with the band in 2016.
Johnson’s hearing problems led AC/DC to bring in Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose to complete that year’s tour. He later returned to performing after using specialised in-ear technology designed to help protect and manage his hearing.
In short
- Brian Johnson links his hearing loss to flu.
- The condition halted AC/DC touring in 2016.
- He later returned with specialist hearing technology.
Explained simply
Brian Johnson is the lead singer of AC/DC, one of the world's most successful rock bands. The Australian group has been performing high-volume stadium rock for decades and remains among the biggest touring acts globally.
Johnson's hearing problems became public in 2016 when he had to step away from touring with the band. Hearing loss is an occupational concern for rock musicians who spend years performing at high volumes, making his condition a significant issue for both his career and AC/DC's touring plans.
The band brought in Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose to complete their tour that year. Johnson later returned to performing with specialised in-ear monitoring technology designed to help manage hearing during live performances.