News. Concert. AC/DC Concert at Optus Stadium.
The city of Perth was electrified on Thursday night as legendary rock band AC/DC delivered a powerful performance at Optus Stadium, reaffirming their status as one of rock’s most enduring forces. The band’s return to the city after a decade-long absence was marked by an explosive set that left fans of all ages exhilarated.
Lead singer Brian Johnson captured the sentiment of the night with his opening words, “Perth, where the f… have you been for the last 10 years?” It had indeed been 10 years and five days since AC/DC last played in Perth, but as the opening riff reverberated through the stadium, it felt as though they had never left.
A Long-Awaited Reunion
The concert was a reunion of sorts for Perth fans, who have a special connection to the band through the late frontman Bon Scott. Scott’s early performances in Fremantle’s pubs and music halls helped shape the band’s iconic sound. Many fans paid homage to Scott by visiting his grave at Fremantle Cemetery before the show, a testament to his enduring legacy.
James McKay, who traveled from Scotland with his brother to see AC/DC, emphasized the importance of paying respects to Scott. “We appreciate that AC/DC is one of the world’s most famous bands and it’s only right that we recognize the importance that Bon Scott had in the band’s formative years,” McKay said.
Generations of Fans Unite
Fans of all ages, from diehards in vintage tour shirts to first-timers with brand-new devil horns, filled the stadium. Chris Bonacci, a long-time fan, expressed his emotional connection to the band, stating, “I play AC/DC pretty much every day. It’s part of my culture, part of my life.” Bonacci was thrilled to see younger generations embracing the band’s music, sharing the experience with his children.
Among the younger fans was 13-year-old Ace Houston, an aspiring musician inspired by AC/DC’s music. “AC/DC is the best rock and roll band in the world for a reason,” he said. “I want to be able to play guitar and drums like them one day.”
Political Figures Weigh In
Even local politicians had their say on the band’s return. State Liberal leader Basil Zempilas admitted to enjoying AC/DC’s music but chose not to attend the concert. Labor MP John Carey humorously acknowledged his unfamiliarity with the band’s songs, while Labor MP Hugh Jones, a self-proclaimed fan, eagerly anticipated the show.
The Setlist and Performance
Optus Stadium expected over 95,000 fans across both shows, with Perth being the fourth leg of AC/DC’s Power Up tour. The band’s setlist leaned heavily on nostalgia, with classics like “If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)” and “Back In Black” energizing the crowd. Despite touring their five-year-old album, Power Up, only two tracks from the album were featured, allowing fans to revel in the band’s timeless anthems.
The night also paid homage to Perth’s own Canning Highway, the inspiration for the iconic “Highway to Hell.” Supporting acts Southern River Band and Amyl & The Sniffers, both influenced by AC/DC, set the stage with their energetic performances, proving that rock and roll is alive and well.
The Legacy Continues
As the final chords rang out and the smoke drifted across the crowd, fans were left wondering when AC/DC would return to Perth. With only one more show scheduled in the city, the band’s future visits remain uncertain. However, the night’s performance solidified AC/DC’s legacy as rock legends, leaving an indelible mark on Perth’s music history.
