AC/DC are embarking on their first tour in eight years. This is great news for the fans although, unfortunately, they will not see two of the band’s classic members on stage, i.e. bassist Cliff Williams and drummer Phil Rudd, who will be replaced by Matt Laug (already played with the guys at last year’s Power Trip festival performance).
Why won’t Phil Rudd play on the upcoming AC/DC tour? He is caring for his partner Toni Wilson, who is suffering from stage four breast cancer. The musician is also selling off his rock and roll memorabilia (cars, drum kits, awards, etc.), raising money for the New Zealand Cancer Foundation.
In an interview for the Stuff website, Rudd said:
“I’d give it all up, throw it on a bonfire, if it meant it would give Toni more time. She’s the love of my life. My best friend. All the money in the world can buy you things. But it can’t buy you time. I cried for Bon [Bon Scott – AC/DC’s vocalist, who died in 1980] but we just went on rocking. With Toni, I feel the same pain, losing someone you love. It’s made me think about life, that things – success, hit records – they mean nothing when it comes down to it. Friends and family are what matter. I’m looking forward to playing with AC/DC in the future but that right now I need to take care of Toni.“
