AC/DC returns after 14 years with a fiery Grammy medley of “Rock or Bust” and “Highway to Hell”—a moment fans won’t forget!
After an absence spanning over 14 years, AC/DC roared back onto national television with a performance that reignited their fiery legacy. Their return at the Grammy Awards wasn’t just a comeback—it was a seismic reminder of their enduring power. As Angus Young took the stage, guitar in hand and energy radiating like lightning, the band wasted no time reclaiming their throne, thrilling every soul inside the packed Staples Center.
The band opened their explosive set with “Rock or Bust,” the defiant title track from their 2014 album. Its rebellious lyrics and roaring guitar riffs declared loudly that rock and roll had never left. As the first chords rang out, the audience erupted, their cheers echoing through the arena. Seamlessly, the band transitioned into the electrifying “Highway to Hell,” a song forever linked with Angus Young’s signature devil horns and rock’s rebellious edge.
The crowd, many of them donning red glowing horns in homage, turned the Staples Center into a sea of flashing red lights. It was more than a performance—it was a celebration of rock history. Fans stood, danced, shouted, and sang in unison as AC/DC blasted through the decades with unmatched intensity. The transition between tracks felt effortless, a testament to the band’s chemistry and timeless presence on stage.
This Grammy moment was also historic for the band’s lineup. Drummer Chris Slade returned to the AC/DC fold after more than two decades, stepping in for Phil Rudd, who was facing legal issues at the time. Slade, who had previously played with the band between 1989 and 1994, seamlessly filled the gap, bringing precision and raw energy to every beat. His presence added a layer of nostalgia and strength to the performance.
Phil Rudd, an essential part of the band’s classic rhythm section from 1975 to 1983, had been reinstated in the mid-90s before stepping aside due to his legal troubles. Slade’s reappearance reminded fans of the band’s ability to adapt and thrive through any storm, always finding a way to keep their legacy alive while honoring the musicians who helped build it. His return wasn’t just a substitution—it was a triumphant return of a veteran performer.
The intensity of the moment extended beyond the stage. It was a symbolic return, not just to television, but to the cultural forefront, proving that AC/DC’s music still resonates across generations. The performance felt like a declaration of permanence—that no matter how long they’ve been gone from the spotlight, their influence endures. The passion in the crowd and the raw energy from the band were proof that the fire of rock was still burning hot.
With millions tuning in live and countless more watching the replay, the performance quickly spread across social media and streaming platforms. Clips of the medley dominated timelines, reigniting discussions about AC/DC’s legacy and celebrating their refusal to fade away. For younger viewers, it was perhaps their first live taste of one of rock’s most powerful forces. For longtime fans, it was the return they’d been waiting for.
The band’s choice to blend a newer anthem with one of their all-time classics was more than just a setlist decision—it was a statement. “Rock or Bust” symbolized resilience and renewal, while “Highway to Hell” reminded everyone of the foundation upon which their empire was built. The seamless melding of the two showcased a band that honors its past while embracing its present with equal conviction.
To this day, that Grammy performance remains one of the most iconic comeback moments in televised music history. Whether it’s being replayed in highlight reels or shared between friends as a reminder of rock’s glory days, its impact continues to ripple. It was more than a performance—it was a resurrection, a sonic celebration of survival, and a vivid affirmation of why AC/DC continues to matter.
In the years since, the clip has accumulated hundreds of millions of views worldwide, standing as a digital monument to the band’s relentless spirit. It’s a vivid reminder that while time may pass and trends may shift, true rock legends don’t disappear—they just wait for the right moment to remind the world exactly who they are. And on that night, AC/DC did just that—louder, prouder, and fiercer than ever.
