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Last week, it was reported that AC/DC guitarist and founding member Malcolm Young had retired from the legendary group after being taken into care for dementia. The claims by sources connected to the Young family have now been verified by Young’s family and the band’s Australian management.
“Malcolm is suffering from dementia and the family thanks you for respecting their privacy,” read a statement reportedly from Young’s family, given to the New York-based magazine People. Fairfax, who originally broke the news, have confirmed the statement with management firm Alberts Music.
Last week a source informed Fairfax that Young was suffering from dementia, after months of circulating rumours. “It’s dementia, 150 per cent,” said a source close to the Young family. The source added that the 61-year old guitarist does not remember how to play AC/DC’s songs, making him unable to work.
“If you were in the room with [Malcolm Young] and walked out then came back in one minute later he wouldn’t remember who you are,” they said. “He has a complete loss of short term memory. His wife Linda has put him in full-time care.” Young is reportedly in a facility specialising in dementia care.
Last week also saw AC/DC announcing the release of their forthcoming 16th studio album, Rock or Bust, which will feature Young’s nephew Stevie filling in for his uncle. In a statement announcing the LP, the band confirmed that Malcolm will not re-join the group. Stevie will accompany the band on tour.
Rock or Bust is currently slated for release on Friday, 28th November. It will be the first album in the iconic hard rock group’s 41-year history not to feature Malcolm Young. Frontman Brian Johnson previously told Classic Rock magazine that he wanted to call the album Man Down in reference to Young.
