AC/DC Back in Paris: The Secret History of the Band

It’s official: AC/DC is storming European stages again with an extension of their 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 exceptional concerts on August 9 and 13, 2025. A year after setting the Hippodrome ParisLongchamp ablaze, the Australian-British band promises to shake the capital once more.

These new dates mark a strong comeback for AC/DC, which continues to rally generations of fans. It’s the perfect time to revisit 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 born in Sydney in 1973, driven by the Malcolm and Angus Young brothers, Scottish immigrants. The band’s name, found by their sister Margaret on a sewing machine, perfectly symbolizes their music: a continuous current of electric energy.

Angus Young, always dressed in his famous schoolboy outfit, whips up the crowds with his Gibson SG. Fun fact: it was his sister Margaret who suggested this outfit to him, which has since become iconic

Their first concert took place on December 31, 1973. The young Angus already sported his famous schoolboy uniform, a costume that became iconic. 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 tracks like It’s a Long Way to the Top or High Voltage quickly became essential anthems.

Bon Scott: The Rebellious Soul of AC/DC and International Takeoff

From 1974 to 1980, Bon Scott left his indelible mark on the band. His rough voice and provocative lyrics captivated an ever-growing audience. The albums Let There Be Rock (1977) and Highway to Hell (1979) propelled AC/DC to the status of a global phenomenon.

Unfortunately, fate 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 the microphone.

Back in Black: The Rebirth and Consecration

A few months later, Back in Black hit the shelves. This true tribute to Bon Scott opens with Hells Bells and follows with classics, from You Shook Me All Night Long to Back in Black. The album became a rock monument, with over 50 million copies sold to date.

The success was confirmed with For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) (1981), and AC/DC’s concerts became true shows, where giant bells and cannons left a lasting impression. Angus Young, unleashed on stage, became a living legend.

Ups and Downs: Exemplary Resilience

The 1980s and 1990s were marked by lineup changes and uneven albums. Phil Rudd, the historic drummer, left the band in 1983 before returning in 1994. Despite periods of decline, AC/DC regularly reached the top again with albums like The Razors Edge (1990), driven by the hit Thunderstruck.

The Black Ice Tour (2008-2010) confirmed AC/DC’s mythical status. The tour was one of the most lucrative of the decade, and the band seemed unstoppable.

Power Up: A Return to Roots and Renewal

In 2020, AC/DC made a strong comeback with Power Up, an album tribute to Malcolm Young, who passed away in 2017. Gathering riffs written by Malcolm before his illness, the record was a critical and commercial success. Brian Johnson regained his legendary voice, and Phil Rudd, Stevie Young, and Angus Young reformed an almost historic lineup.

With over 50 years of career, Angus Young continues to electrify stages around the world. At over 70 years old, he still performs his famous duckwalk, inspired by Chuck Berry

The Power Up Tour, launched in 2024, is an opportunity to see these living legends on stage again.

Stade de France in 2025: An Unmissable Double Date

Faced with the overwhelming success of the first date on August 9, 2025, AC/DC added a second concert on August 13. These two evenings at the Stade de France promise to be the highlights of the musical summer.

A Cult Repertoire
Expect a setlist mixing classics (Back in Black, Thunderstruck, Highway to Hell) and 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 part of the spectacle.
A New Dynamic Lineup
After Cliff Williams‘ departure, the bass is now held by Chris Chaney. On drums, Matt Laug brings a new rhythmic energy.

Anecdotes and Stage Secrets

The Blues at the Heart of AC/DC’s Sound: Despite being labeled a hard rock band, Angus Young claims a strong influence from blues, especially in his 12-bar riffs.
The Famous “Hells Bells” Bell: It weighs over a ton and descends on stage at every concert.
Angus’s Schoolboy Uniform: Chosen by his sister Margaret, it has become one of the most recognizable visual symbols of rock.
The Tragedy of Bon Scott: After his death, the band almost split, but Back in Black allowed them to turn this pain into unprecedented success.

Book Your Tickets Quickly!

Tickets for AC/DC concerts always sell out very quickly. Reservations are open on official ticketing platforms (GDP, Ticketmaster…). If you want to relive the band’s raw energy, it’s essential to book without delay.

Cannons on stage? A nod to the title “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You),” where the famous gunshots can be heard. Since then, these pyrotechnic effects have become a staple of concerts

AC/DC, an Indestructible Legend

In over fifty years of career, AC/DC has become a true rock ‘n’ roll rock. The band has overcome tragedies, lineup changes, and the challenges of the music industry. Today, it continues to rally multiple generations around the same battle cry: “For Those About to Rock… We Salute You!”.

The Power Up Tour 2025 promises to be a historic event for French fans. Angus Young, Brian Johnson, and their comrades are ready to offer you a unique musical experience at the Stade de France. So, ready to embark on the highway to hell? See you in August 2025!