AC/DC deny split rumours but confirm Malcolm is taking a break

It's been on the cards for the past 24 hours and now it's been confirmed via AC/DC's Facebook page that Malcolm Young is taking a break from the band due to his ill health.

In an official statement posted on AC/DC’s Facebook page, the band have said: “After forty years of life dedicated to AC/DC, guitarist and founding member Malcolm Young is taking a break from the band due to ill health. Malcolm would like to thank the group’s diehard legions of fans worldwide for their never-ending love and support. In light of this news, AC/DC asks that Malcolm and his family’s privacy be respected during this time. The band will continue to make music.” Rumours had been running wild on the internet since it was alleged that Malcom Young, rhythm guitarist and founding member of the group, was no longer able to play. The rumours were originally denied by frontman Brian Johnson.

Luke Morton joined Metal Hammer as Online Editor in 2014, having previously worked as News Editor at popular (but now sadly defunct) alternative lifestyle magazine, Front. As well as helming the Metal Hammer website for the four years that followed, Luke also helped relaunch the Metal Hammer podcast in early 2018, producing, scripting and presenting the relaunched show during its early days. He also wrote regular features for the magazine, including a 2018 cover feature for his very favourite band in the world, Slipknot, discussing their turbulent 2008 album, All Hope Is Gone.