The Lives of Brian by Brian Johnson is the story of AC/DC’s legendary frontman in his own inimitable
voice.
His writing is straight to the point and the text flows as he describes his life in post-war Dunston in the
Tyne and Wear district of England. Living with his ex-army sergeant major father, Italian mother, siblings
and numerous other family members, life was hard.
The young Brian was not one to be idle, however, and worked hard as a choir boy and Sea Scout, even if
he didn’t always succeed!
It was, however, a revelation when he saw Little Richard perform on the BBC! Brian Johnson was
determined to become a singer/performer and nothing was going to stop him!
During the next decade, his life was full. Not only did he appear on TV and tour Europe and Australia with
a succession of bands he was also married with a family to support. He was forced to take whatever
work he could find, although he did eventually run his own successful business.
Then, out of the blue, he was invited to London for an audition. This led to him joining AC/DC following
the tragic loss of their singer, Bon Scott. This led to the recording of “Back in Black”, which became the
biggest-selling album of all time. Brian and the band played in packed arenas on the tour that followed
this success.
In 2016, however, Brian was forced to leave the band due to hearing loss. He did, however, make
a triumphant return to the band with the release of the 2020’s smash hit album “Power Up”.
Thus Brian has lived many lives during his lifetime, although mixing at times with the rich and famous
hasn’t changed him, and he has never lost touch with his roots!
As you would expect from this amazing lyricist, Brian doesn’t mess about with excess information.
His writing is as vibrant and interesting as the lyrics he has written in the past. The wonderfully
descriptive narrative of his life is often funny, sometimes sad, but his attitude is always positive and he is
kind and tolerant of the folk he often has had to deal with over the years.
Despite the various rip-offs that seem to make up the greater part of show business he has always
remained positive and helped others, who are making their way up the ladder.
It isn’t difficult to see why he has made so many good friends along the way and is well-loved by those in
the industry.
A brilliant read from start to finish, a fast-paced, revelation of all things rock and roll and another must
read to add to your list for the New Year.
ISBN: 9780241446423
Publisher: Penguin Books Australia
The Lives of Brian is available in hardback, paperback and e-book.
About Brian Johnson
Brian has also written Test Pilot, which follows the ups and downs of a group of trainee test pilots at
Boscombe Down in Wiltshire.
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