A Night to Remember

At 77 years old, lead singer Brian Johnson and 70-year-old guitarist Angus Young took the stage amid a sea of enthusiastic fans donning red devil horn headbands, eager to sing along to 21 of the band’s most iconic tracks. From the opening song, “If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)”, the palpable excitement filled the venue as Johnson’s animated performance resonated with fans across all ages.

Timeless Rock Classics

AC/DC’s setlist included classics such as “Back in Black”, which marks the beginning of Johnson’s tenure with the band in 1980. Despite facing hearing issues in recent years, Johnson’s stage presence and energy remained compelling throughout the concert, alongside tracks from their latest album, Power Up. The crowd roared along to favorites like “Shot Down to Flames”, “Hells Bells”, and “Thunderstruck”.

Behind the Music

AC/DC’s longevity is remarkable, particularly considering the challenges they’ve faced throughout their career. After the tragic death of original vocalist Bon Scott in 1980, the band rebounded with the release of the critically acclaimed album Back in Black, featuring Johnson. This resilience is a testament to the band’s commitment to its craft, highlighted by frequent stage breaks during the performance, allowing the audience to savor each song’s intensity.

The band now features new drummer Matt Laug and bassist Chris Chaney, bringing fresh energy while maintaining the spirit of the original group, which was founded by Angus and his late brother, Malcolm Young. Their nephew, Stevie Young, has also stepped into the role of rhythm guitarist since 2014 following Malcolm’s passing.

The Power of Live Music

Music lovers of various ages came together at the Rose Bowl, unified by the joy of rock ‘n’ roll. Many in attendance echoed similar sentiments as one fan remarked, “This was my 10th show across several continents,” indicating a deep-rooted devotion to the band. The show marked a natural environment of camaraderie reminiscent of rock’s golden age, where the music spoke louder than anything else.

Despite facing health concerns, Johnson’s return in 2019 revitalized the group, and their performance in 2025 demonstrated that their appeal and stage presence remain strong. The band’s ability to evoke excitement is further illustrated by the surprise attendance of other rock legends, including Axl Rose and Slash, who drew cheers from the audience.

Opening Act: The Pretty Reckless

AC/DC’s concert was enhanced by the presence of opening act The Pretty Reckless, fronted by Taylor Momsen. Momsen’s powerful vocals and energetic stage presence captivated the audience, generating buzz and excitement. Many concert-goers commented positively on her performance, remarking on her ability to connect with the crowd.