Retiring after a successful, nearly 40-year successful career is hardly newsworthy for most folks in most industries. But the tempestuous life of a world-touring rock star is quite the different story.
Cliff Williams, the bassist for AC/DC has confirmed he is retiring, Rolling Stone magazine reported Tuesday. Earlier this summer Mr. Williams said he would “back off” recording and touring at the close of this summer’s tour.
“It’s time for me to step out, that’s all,” Rolling Stone quoted the 66-year-old musician, who has been with the band for 39 years. He replaced Mark Evans at bass in 1977. Angus Young, the band’s lead guitarist, remains the sole original member of the band still actively playing.
“In between tours, we take a few years off, so I know how to do that, I know what I’m gonna do,” Mr. Williams said in a video, reported ultimateclassicrock.com.
“Again, it’s just my time,” he said. “I’m happy. I just need to — family time now — just chill out and not do this. I mean, I couldn’t have asked for anything more, being with the people I’m with and have been, and being in this situation with this band, playing this music.”
The band made waves earlier this year when Axl Rose, formerly of Guns N’ Roses, confirmed that he was joining the band as a vocalist for its U.S. tour.
The Washington Times reviewed the D.C. leg of that tour Monday, hailing the Verizon Center performance as an “ear-ringing thrill ride.”
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