Brian Johnson feels like he’s been “kicked to the curb” by AC/DC after suffering problems with his hearing, says a friend of the singer.
The band recently rescheduled a handful of US live dates after Johnson was advised by doctors to “stop touring immediately or risk total hearing loss“.
The group issued a statement on their website confirming that the remaining dates of their US tour will be “made up later in the year, likely with a guest vocalist”.
Following speculation over Johnson’s future, comedian Jim Breuer spoke about the situation on his The Metal In Me podcast.
During the episode, Breuer described a conversation he allegedly had with Johnson recently where the singer said he was feeling “really depressed” and like a “hired gun” whose been “kicked to the curb” by the group.
Breuer says Johnson “didn’t say he wanted to quit and “didn’t say he was done”.
Johnson also allegedly told Breuer that he believes the band has already hired his replacement to continue touring and releasing music.
Breuer and Johnson are close friends and have worked together several times in the past, with the AC/DC singer even recording vocals for the comedian’s rock album.
However, he later clarified his comments, saying that he got “carried away”.
Writing on Facebook: “I have seen some stories circulating about my podcast. As a friend, I saw Brian withdrawn for the first time in my life. He’s not a quitter, he seemed hurt by the situation of being between a rock and a hard place. I spoke as a true fan and friend, simply venting as if he was a brother of mine. I hope to see him Rock Out one more time. You have to remember I’m a comedian & a storyteller. I definitely exaggerate and sometimes I get a little carried away!! And this was one of those times!”
On Twitter, he added:
As far as the podcast – I was not quoting Brian Johnson's words- he was down & out – hoping to finish the tour! It's mostly me venting
— Jim Breuer (@JimBreuer) March 15, 2016
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