The newsboy cap became an inseparable part of Brian Johnson’s stage attire after his brother suggested the headgear to prevent sweat from blinding him during performances. Born in Dunston on 5 October 1947, the musician rose from a background in the Territorial Army and local club bands to become the voice behind some of the highest-selling albums in history.
Early Career and Geordie
Before joining the international stage, Johnson performed with early acts including Gobi Desert Canoe Club and Fresh. By 1970, he performed with the Jasper Hart Band, covering soft-rock songs and tracks from the musical Hair. In 1971, he co-founded the group Geordie in Newcastle upon Tyne. The band achieved success with singles such as 1973’s All Because of You. Geordie remained active until 1978, though solo compilations of the band’s work, including Strange Man and Keep On Rocking, appeared in later years under Johnson's name.
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Following the death of AC/DC frontman Bon Scott on 19 February 1980, the band considered several candidates for his successor. Angus and Malcolm Young recalled that Scott had previously praised Johnson’s vocal style as comparable to Little Richard. Johnson auditioned in London in March 1980, demonstrating his ability to perform tracks such as Whole Lotta Rosie and Nutbush City Limits. He was officially announced as the new vocalist on 1 April 1980.
Global Success and Songwriting
Johnson traveled to the Bahamas to record his debut with the band at Compass Point Studios. The resulting album, Back in Black, released in July 1980, became the second-best-selling album of all time. Johnson contributed lyrics until the 1988 release Blow Up Your Video. Starting with The Razors Edge in 1990, songwriting duties were assumed entirely by Angus and Malcolm Young. Johnson remained a consistent touring member, earning an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Northumbria University in 2014.
Hiatus and Return
In March 2016, Johnson departed from the Rock or Bust World Tour due to hearing issues. He rejoined the group in August 2018 alongside bassist Cliff Williams and drummer Phil Rudd. This reunion facilitated the recording of the studio album Power Up. The band had previously been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, recognizing their enduring influence on rock music.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 October 1947, Dunston, United Kingdom
- Early band: Geordie
- Joined AC/DC: 1980
- Honorary degree: Doctor of Music, Northumbria University, 2014
- Notable album: Back in Black
- Military service: Territorial Army, 17th Parachute Battalion
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction: 2003
- Return to AC/DC: August 2018
Questions readers ask
When did Brian Johnson stop writing lyrics for AC/DC?
He stopped contributing lyrics after the 1988 album Blow Up Your Video.
Why does Brian Johnson wear a cap on stage?
His brother suggested the cap to keep sweat from dripping off his hair into his eyes while performing.
