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The Historic Melbourne Performance
When did Brian Johnson last play AC/DC Jailbreak live in Australia? The answer shocked everyone who packed into Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 12, 2025. The iconic AC/DC Jailbreak live performance hadn’t been heard since November 16, 1991, when the band wrapped their Razor’s Edge tour in Auckland, New Zealand.
Eighty thousand fans witnessed something extraordinary. The classic rock news spread instantly across social media as videos captured the moment. Johnson’s voice commanded the stage with surprising strength, defying the hearing issues that nearly ended his career a decade earlier.
At 78 years old, Johnson delivered a performance that reminded everyone why he became one of classic rock’s most iconic frontmen. His energy matched the thunderous crowd response. The connection between artist and audience created an unforgettable moment in rock history.
This Melbourne show marked AC/DC’s first Australian appearance in 10 years. Fans had waited patiently since the 2015 Rock Or Bust tour. The anticipation built for months as tour dates were announced. Nobody expected the band would dust off this particular gem from their catalog.
The Story Behind ‘Jailbreak’
Why is Jailbreak such a significant song for AC/DC? The track holds special meaning as a Bon Scott-era classic. It first appeared on the Australian version of Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap in September 1976. North American fans didn’t get access until 1984 when the ’74 Jailbreak EP finally arrived.
Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott penned this rebellious anthem together. The gritty narrative and driving rhythm captured the band’s raw energy perfectly. Its infectious groove made it a live favorite throughout the late 1970s, with Scott performing it 59 times between 1976 and 1977.
After Scott’s tragic death in 1980, Johnson took over vocal duties. He first performed ‘Jailbreak’ during the 1985 Flick of the Switch tour. The song took on new dimensions with Johnson’s powerful delivery. However, after that 1991 Auckland show, it mysteriously vanished from setlists for over three decades.
The song’s resurrection in Melbourne carried deep emotional weight. For longtime fans, hearing AC/DC Jailbreak live again represented a bridge between two legendary eras. It honored Scott’s legacy while celebrating Johnson’s remarkable return to form.
Brian Johnson’s Hearing Journey
How did Brian Johnson overcome his hearing loss? The singer faced a devastating diagnosis in 2016. Doctors warned him that continuing to perform risked total deafness. Johnson described the experience as “crippling,” unable to hear guitar tones and relying purely on muscle memory.
His departure shocked the rock world. Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose stepped in to complete the Rock Or Bust tour. Many fans wondered if Johnson would ever return. The situation seemed hopeless as conventional hearing aids couldn’t solve his specific problems.
Enter Stephen Ambrose, the inventor of wireless in-ear monitors. Ambrose developed groundbreaking technology specifically for Johnson’s condition. The device uses bone conduction, transmitting sound through skull structure rather than damaged eardrums. Development took two and a half years of patient collaboration.
Johnson’s dedication to returning never wavered. Monthly sessions involved endless testing with wires and computer screens. The breakthrough technology eventually became small enough for practical stage use. Other artists like k.d. Lang have since benefited from this innovation.
The hearing device represents more than medical technology. It symbolizes perseverance and the refusal to let physical limitations end a legendary career. Johnson’s successful return with this technology inspired musicians worldwide facing similar challenges.
The Power Up Tour Takes Australia
What makes the Power Up tour special for Australian fans? The AC/DC 2026 tour schedule extends their triumphant return home. This marks their first Australian shows since 2015, creating pent-up demand among devoted followers.
The tour officially launched in May 2024 across Europe. Over 1.7 million tickets sold within days of the announcement. Eventually, sales surpassed 2 million across 24 European shows. North American dates followed before the band headed to Australia.
Melbourne Cricket Ground hosted back-to-back shows drawing 160,000 fans total. The production quality exceeded all expectations. Massive video screens, pyrotechnics, and classic props like the bell for ‘Hells Bells’ created an immersive experience.
Guitarist Angus Young, now 70, displayed supernatural stamina. His 18-minute guitar solo during ‘Let There Be Rock’ stretched the song to 26 minutes. Young’s signature schoolboy uniform and duck walk remain as energetic as ever.
The Power Up tour setlist balances nostalgia with recent material. Only two tracks come from the 2020 Power Up album. The pandemic prevented touring when that record dropped. Now fans finally experience ‘Demon Fire’ and ‘Shot in the Dark’ live.
Balancing Two Legendary Eras
How does AC/DC honor both their legendary vocalists? The 21-song setlist carefully balances material from two distinct periods. Twelve tracks represent the Bon Scott era, while nine showcase Johnson’s tenure. This split demonstrates respect for both chapters of the band’s history.
Scott-era classics dominate the show’s foundation. ‘Highway to Hell,’ ‘Let There Be Rock,’ and ‘Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap’ remain crowd favorites. These songs established AC/DC’s reputation for raw, uncompromising rock. Their inclusion pays tribute to the band’s Australian roots.
Johnson-era anthems provide equally powerful moments. ‘Back in Black,’ ‘You Shook Me All Night Long,’ and ‘Thunderstruck’ represent some of rock’s most recognizable songs. These tracks helped AC/DC achieve worldwide superstar status throughout the 1980s.
The band never performs certain Scott-era songs out of respect. ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’ hasn’t been played since December 17, 1979. This decision shows the band’s sensitivity regarding Scott’s legacy and his irreplaceable contributions.
Adding ‘Jailbreak’ to the Melbourne setlist created something unique. The song bridges both eras, originally belonging to Scott but successfully performed by Johnson. Its return after 34 years symbolized continuity and evolution within classic rock tradition.
AC/DC’s Evolved Lineup
Who’s playing in AC/DC’s current touring lineup? The Power Up tour features significant changes from the classic configuration. While maintaining the band’s signature sound, new members bring fresh energy to the legendary group.
Brian Johnson returned as vocalist after his successful hearing treatment. Angus Young remains the only constant member, carrying the band’s legacy forward. His younger nephew Stevie Young handles rhythm guitar duties following Malcolm Young’s retirement due to dementia.
Drummer Matt Laug joined in 2023, replacing longtime stickman Phil Rudd. Laug brings extensive experience from touring with Slash and other rock heavyweights. His powerful, precise drumming maintains AC/DC’s trademark groove without trying to replicate Rudd’s style.
Former Jane’s Addiction bassist Chris Chaney completed the lineup in 2024. He replaced Cliff Williams, who retired after the 2016 Rock Or Bust tour. Williams briefly returned for the Power Up album recording but chose not to tour.
This revamped lineup demonstrates AC/DC’s ability to evolve while preserving their essence. The new members respect the band’s legacy without being bound by it. Their performances prove that AC/DC’s music transcends individual players.
What’s Next for AC/DC
Where will AC/DC tour after Australia? The band’s schedule extends well into 2026. Australian shows conclude December 18 in Brisbane. Additional dates span Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth before the year ends.
South American dates kick off February 2026 in São Paulo, Brazil. The tour then moves to Santiago, Buenos Aires, and Mexico City. These markets have embraced AC/DC for decades, promising enthusiastic crowds.
North American stadium shows begin July 11, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The tour hits major cities including Columbus, Madison, San Antonio, and Denver. Western dates cover Las Vegas, Santa Clara, Edmonton, and Vancouver.
Southern and Midwestern cities get their turn later in the tour. Atlanta, Houston, and South Bend round out the schedule. The Pretty Reckless opens all North American shows. The tour concludes September 29, 2026, in Philadelphia.
This extensive touring schedule proves AC/DC remains committed to their fans worldwide. At ages 78 and 70, Johnson and Young show no signs of slowing down. The AC/DC Jailbreak live performance in Melbourne set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable tour.
🎸 ESSENTIAL AC/DC COLLECTION 🎸
Legendary Albums from Rock’s Greatest Power Trio
🎵 Power Up (2020)
The triumphant return album that brought Brian Johnson back.
Features “Shot in the Dark” and “Demon Fire” now electrifying live audiences.
A tribute to Malcolm Young’s songwriting legacy.
Debuted at #1 in 21 countries worldwide.
🎤 Back in Black (1980)
Brian Johnson’s legendary debut with AC/DC.
One of the best-selling albums in music history.
Features immortal tracks like “You Shook Me All Night Long.”
The album that defined hard rock for a generation.
⚡ Dirty Deeds (1976)
The album that introduced ‘Jailbreak’ to the world.
Bon Scott at his rebellious best with raw energy.
Features the iconic title track and “Problem Child.”
Essential listening for understanding AC/DC’s roots.
🔥 Highway to Hell (1979)
Bon Scott’s final studio album and his greatest achievement.
The breakthrough album that conquered American audiences.
Title track remains a rock anthem 45 years later.
Perfect production captures the band’s live intensity.
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Rock and Roll Perseverance
The AC/DC Jailbreak live performance represents more than musical nostalgia. It demonstrates what’s possible when artists refuse to surrender to adversity. Johnson’s journey from near-total hearing loss to commanding stadiums inspires musicians and fans alike.
This historic Melbourne show proves classic rock remains vibrant and relevant. The 80,000 fans who witnessed AC/DC Jailbreak Live created memories they’ll treasure forever. Their thunderous response validated the band’s decision to resurrect this Bon Scott classic.
AC/DC continues defying expectations at every turn. Their commitment to excellence never wavers despite lineup changes and health challenges. The Power Up tour demonstrates that authentic rock and roll never truly fades away.
As the band heads into 2026 with extensive touring plans, they carry rock’s legacy forward. New generations discover their music while longtime fans experience renewed passion. The connection between AC/DC and their audience grows stronger with each electrifying performance.
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Sources
- Rolling Stone – AC/DC Play ‘Jailbreak’ for First Time in 34 Years
- Bangla News – Brian Johnson’s Triumphant Return to AC/DC
- Noise11 – AC/DC Bring Back ‘Jailbreak’ After 34 Years at Melbourne MCG
- NME – Watch AC/DC Perform ‘Jailbreak’ for the First Time in 34 Years
- Blabbermouth – AC/DC Performs ‘Jailbreak’ For First Time In Over 34 Years
- Loudwire – Brian Johnson Overcomes Hearing Loss for AC/DC Return
