Bruce Dickinson Shares Insightful Views on Brian Johnson of AC/DC

Bruce Dickinson has long spoken about the bands that shaped him. He has repeatedly praised AC/DC, their early work, and their later records with Brian Johnson.

Respect for Bon Scott and the early years

Bon Scott sang with AC/DC from 1974 until his death in 1980. Dickinson described that era as powerful and emotionally charged.

He singled out Powerage (1978) and the live album If You Want Blood You’ve Got It. He praised Bon’s versatile voice and noted a strong blues element.

Thoughts on Brian Johnson and recent albums

Brian Johnson replaced Bon Scott in 1980 and became AC/DC’s official singer. Dickinson said the band adjusted its sound to suit Johnson’s voice.

He expressed support for the Johnson-era records. Albums he highlighted include Black Ice (2008), Rock or Bust (2014), and Power Up (2020).

Back in Black’s significance

Back in Black was AC/DC’s first album with Brian Johnson. It became one of the best-selling records, with around 50 million copies sold worldwide.

Dickinson listed Back in Black among his essential albums. He included it on the playlist for his former BBC radio show Masters Of Rock.

2016 tour replacement and public comments

In 2016 Johnson stepped down from touring due to hearing problems. Axl Rose temporarily filled the role to complete the band’s dates.

Dickinson publicly wished Johnson well and urged that AC/DC’s reputation be preserved. He also made a light remark about Rose’s punctuality.

Personal connections and musical choices

Dickinson covered AC/DC’s “Sin City” on his 1990 solo album Tattooed Millionaire. He also named “Ride On” as a favorite, praising its heartfelt guitar solo.

He compared that solo’s tone to Paul Kossoff’s work. Dickinson emphasized the band’s commitment to a consistent musical identity.

Parallels between Dickinson and Johnson

Both singers stepped into bands after celebrated frontmen. Dickinson’s first Iron Maiden record with him, The Number of the Beast (1982), became a major success.

He said bands like Maiden and AC/DC often maintain a clear stylistic approach. Dickinson joked that a full concept treatment of some Maiden albums would require extreme internal control.

Across recent interviews, Bruce Dickinson offered insightful views on Brian Johnson and AC/DC. He praised both Bon Scott’s legacy and Johnson’s long tenure with the band.