
Credits: Egghead06 / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0.
It’s official: AC/DC is storming European stages again with an extension of its Power Up Tour in 2025. The hard rock legend, still led by the tireless Angus Young, will perform at the Stade de France for two special concerts on August 9 and 13, 2025. One year after setting Hippodrome ParisLongchamp on fire, the Australian-British band promises to shake the capital once again.
These new dates mark a major comeback for AC/DC, which continues to unite generations of fans. It’s the perfect time to look back at the history and secrets of one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
The Origins Of AC/DC: Raw Energy Born In Australia
AC/DC was formed in Sydney in 1973, driven by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, Scottish immigrants. The band’s name, found by their sister Margaret on a sewing machine, perfectly symbolizes their music: a constant flow of electric energy. Their first concert took place on December 31, 1973. The young Angus was already wearing his famous schoolboy uniform, a now-iconic outfit. But it was in 1974, with the arrival of singer Bon Scott, that the band found its true identity. The mix of sharp riffs, blues, and pure rock hit the mark.
The albums High Voltage (1975) and T.N.T. (1975) established their style, and songs like It’s a Long Way to the Top or High Voltage quickly became essential anthems.
Bon Scott: AC/DC’s Rebel Soul And International Breakthrough
From 1974 to 1980, Bon Scott left an indelible mark on the band. His gritty voice and provocative lyrics won over an ever-growing audience. The albums Let There Be Rock (1977) and Highway to Hell (1979) propelled AC/DC to global phenomenon status.
Unfortunately, tragedy struck brutally in February 1980: Bon Scott died in London after a night of excess. The shock was immense, but the band chose to continue. Brian Johnson was recruited to take over lead vocals.
Back In Black: Rebirth And Triumph
A few months later, Back in Black hit the shelves. This true tribute to Bon Scott opens with Hells Bells and follows with classic after classic, from You Shook Me All Night Long to Back in Black. The album became a rock landmark, with more than 50 million copies sold to date.
Its success was confirmed with For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) (1981), and AC/DC concerts became true shows, where giant bells and cannons left a lasting impression. Angus Young, unleashed on stage, became a true living legend.
Highs And Lows: Remarkable Resilience
The 1980s and 1990s were marked by lineup changes and uneven albums. Phil Rudd, the band’s longtime drummer, left in 1983 before returning in 1994. Despite quieter periods, AC/DC regularly returned to the top thanks to records like The Razors Edge (1990), driven by the hit Thunderstruck.
The Black Ice Tour (2008-2010) confirmed AC/DC’s legendary status. The tour was one of the decade’s most lucrative, and the band seemed unstoppable.
Power Up: Back To The Roots And A New Beginning
In 2020, AC/DC made a big statement with Power Up, a tribute album to Malcolm Young, who died in 2017. Bringing together riffs written by Malcolm before his illness, the record was both a critical and commercial success. Brian Johnson regained his legendary voice, and Phil Rudd, Stevie Young, and Angus Young re-formed an almost classic lineup. The Power Up Tour, launched in 2024, is an opportunity to see these living legends back on stage.
Stade De France In 2025: A Double Bill You Can’t Miss
Following the huge success of the first show on August 9, 2025, AC/DC has added a second concert on August 13. These two nights at the Stade de France are shaping up to be the highlights of the musical summer.
A Cult Setlist
Expect a setlist mixing the classics (Back in Black, Thunderstruck, Highway to Hell) with recent tracks from Power Up.A Spectacular Show
AC/DC concerts are famous for their staging: cannons, giant bells, and Angus Young’s wild solos are all part of the spectacle.A New Dynamic Lineup
After Cliff Williams left, the bass is now handled by Chris Chaney. On drums, Matt Laug brings new rhythmic energy.
Backstage Anecdotes And Secrets
- Blues At The Heart Of AC/DC’s Sound: Despite the hard rock label, Angus Young claims a strong blues influence, especially in his 12-bar riffs.
- The Famous “Hells Bells” Bell: It weighs more than a ton and descends onto the stage at every concert.
- Angus’s Schoolboy Uniform: Chosen by his sister Margaret, it has become one of rock’s most recognizable visual symbols.
- Bon Scott’s Tragedy: After his death, the band nearly split up, but Back in Black turned that pain into unprecedented success.
Grab Your Tickets Fast!
AC/DC concert tickets always go fast. Reservations are open on official ticketing platforms (GDP, Ticketmaster, etc.). If you want to relive the band’s raw energy, it’s essential to book quickly.
AC/DC, An Untouchable Legend
In more than fifty years of career, AC/DC has become a true rock ‘n’ roll powerhouse. The band has overcome tragedy, lineup changes, and the challenges of the music industry. Today, it continues to bring multiple generations together around one battle cry: “For Those About to Rock… We Salute You!”.
The Power Up Tour 2025 is shaping up to be a historic event for French fans. Angus Young, Brian Johnson, and their bandmates are ready to deliver a unique musical experience at the Stade de France. So, ready to hop on the highway to hell? See you in August 2025!