Chris Slade Confirms AC/DC Return
Chris Slade has confirmed that he will appear with AC/DC for the first time in more than two decades as part of the Grammy Awards broadcast on Sunday (Feb. 8). "This is an amazing opportunity for me," the drummer said in a statement. "After all, most people don't ever get to play with their favorite band once, let alone twice!"
Slade, a member of AC/DC from 1989-94, steps in as Phil Rudd's legal woes continue. Charged with threatening to kill and drug possession, Rudd's scheduled court appearance next week in New Zealand was delayed when his lawyer abruptly walked out.
Rudd had already completed work on AC/DC's current studio effort, 'Rock or Bust,' but hasn't been able to participate in subsequent photo and video shoots. Rob Richards of Shogun mimed Rudd's parts, but obviously the Grammy show -- AC/DC's first national television appearance in 14 years -- required someone more familiar with the group's storied history.
Rumors have swirled for days about Slade's involvement, even as Rudd hired a high-profile New Zealand-based replacement in attorney Craig Tuck. The cat seemed to have completely escaped the bag, however, when Slade was photographed last night (Feb. 6) signing AC/DC memorabilia at a pre-Grammy event.
"I would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming support I have been shown personally, on the Facebook page and other social media," Slade added. "Not one comment has gone unread and it has been very humbling. Thanks so much. We apologise for the secrecy. Please understand this was for all the right reasons."
After Sunday's show, AC/DC has confirmed dates that include Coachella in April and a more extensive tour later on. It's unclear just yet whether Slade will remain on board for these subsequent shows. Rudd, who was originally with AC/DC from 1975-83, returned to take over for Slade in 1994.
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