Open Letter from Angus Young to Axl Rose and Rock Band Fans
Dear Axl,
It’s been a while since we’ve shared the stage together, and I’ve taken some time to reflect on the incredible journey rock ‘n’ roll has taken us on. What we’ve achieved, the battles we’ve fought, and the glory of music that continues to inspire millions across the globe are stories that will live forever. But today, I wanted to write this letter, not only to you but also to the legions of fans who have been with us every step of the way.
From the moment I picked up the guitar, I knew rock ‘n’ roll was going to be more than just a passion for me—it would be my life. And for you, Axl, it wasn’t just the voice of Guns N’ Roses that shook the world. It was the audacity of it all, the fire, the raw emotion you put into your music and the live performances that left fans breathless. The same way AC/DC has always been about delivering that wall of sound and energy, Guns N’ Roses was about defiance, power, and passion.
I have to admit, there’s always been a sense of rivalry between bands, especially those as legendary as AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses. But with time, I’ve come to realize that rivalry is what pushed us to the limits of what we could create. The energy that comes from competition also fuels our creativity, and in this business, it’s not just about playing the hits, it’s about continuing to push boundaries and making sure our fans know they’re hearing something that will last forever. They don’t want to hear just another song; they want to hear the song.
That’s what it’s been like for us, right? We’ve had our ups and downs, but the one thing that has remained constant is the music. And when it comes to being true to that, I’ve always respected the journey that Guns N’ Roses has had and the role you’ve played in shaping it. Your voice, your stage presence, the iconic Axl Rose that millions have come to know—it’s something that will never be duplicated. Just like our own sound with AC/DC. We all have our place in rock history, and we’ve earned it through blood, sweat, and tears.
And let’s talk about fans for a minute. What would we be without them? The power of rock music isn’t just in the records or the stadium shows—it’s in the connection we share with every single person in that crowd. Whether it’s the electric energy at a live show, or the way the music gets passed down through generations, rock fans are an irreplaceable part of this journey. We wouldn’t be here if not for them, and that’s something every musician should recognize. The loyalty, the passion, the sweat they shed in the pit, and the love they send us from every corner of the world—it’s humbling.
As I write this letter, I can’t help but think of how far we’ve come, not just as musicians, but as people. The years may have passed, and things may have changed, but at the end of the day, it’s the music that keeps us connected. It’s always been about the sound, the songs, and the electric atmosphere that surrounds everything we do. But as I reflect on those early days of playing in the clubs, dreaming of something bigger, I realize that it wasn’t just the music that made rock special—it was the unity of a community. Fans didn’t just come to hear a band play, they came to be part of something bigger. They came for the experience.
That’s why I believe, with all my heart, that the future of rock music depends on this. On us. On the legends that paved the way and the new faces that are emerging to carry the torch. We can never stop pushing. We can never stop striving for that perfect performance, that one song that will live forever. But we must also remember the power of what we do—how we bring people together. Music isn’t just entertainment. It’s a shared experience that defines generations. And if we’re doing our jobs right, it’s something that doesn’t just stay on the stage; it spreads like wildfire, igniting hearts and minds all over the world.
To you, Axl, I want to say thank you. Thank you for showing us what it means to be truly fearless in music. The risks you’ve taken, the authenticity you’ve maintained, the sheer power of your presence—it’s something that can’t be replicated. It’s your own brand of magic. And to the fans, those who have stood by us through every tour, every album, every high and low—I’m grateful for you. You’re the heartbeat of this thing, and without you, we wouldn’t be who we are today.
In the end, it’s about the music. It’s about pushing each other to keep rocking, to keep being bold, and to keep giving our all to every note, every performance. And it’s about the love we share for this incredible thing called rock ‘n’ roll.
So here’s to you, Axl. Here’s to us. And here’s to the fans who will always keep this fire burning bright. Let’s keep on rocking for as long as we can. The world is listening, and they’re ready for more.
Yours in rock and roll,
Angus Young
AC/DC
