Nearly seven years after he retired, where exactly is AC/DC bassist Cliff Williams now?
The end of AC/DC's Rock Or Bust World Tour in 2016 also marked Williams' retirement, and his decision followed the exits of the band's longtime members Phil Rudd, Brian Johnson and Malcolm Young. They were also facing a massive loss after the death of AC/DC original singer Bon Scott.
After Williams stepped out of the spotlight, his band shared good news about the bassist.
Cliff Williams' Return Finally Happening
Previously, AC/DC fans already rejoiced as Williams and Johnson became part of the band's recording sessions for the album "Power Up" in 2020. However, the bassist's status became blurry as the COVID-19 pandemic stopped the band's plans.
Now, AC/DC confirmed that Williams would be back as its bassist while drummer Matt Laug would fill in for Rudd ahead of its appearance at the Power Trip Festival.
"PWR UP for Power Trip!" it said on X. "Listen to the rehearsal of the boys powering up with Cliff Williams, who's coming out of retirement for the festival and Matt Laug on drums."
PWR UP for Power Trip! Listen to the rehearsal of the boys powering up with Cliff Williams, who's coming out of retirement for the festival and Matt Laug on drums. pic.twitter.com/FdpX3bf65a
— AC/DC (@acdc) September 9, 2023
It would be Williams' first stage with the band since his retirement, saying in his past statement that he was ready to get off the road.
He joined AC/DC in 1977 to replace the band's original bassist, Mark Evans.
Prior to his exit, Williams already hinted at his retirement in an interview with Gulfshore Life.
"It's been what I've known for the past 40 years, but after this tour, I'm backing off of touring and recording," he said in July 2016. "Losing Malcolm, the thing with Phil and now with Brian, it's a changed animal. I feel in my gut it's the right thing."
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AC/DC To Headline Power Trip Festival
AC/DC will join other rock bands that will headline the upcoming Power Trip Festival in Indio, Calif.
Guns N' Roses and Iron Maiden will co-headline at the festival's first day on October 6 while AC/DC will play with Judas Priest on October 7. Previously, Ozzy Osbourne was tapped to headline the second day but has since pulled out because of his health issues.
Meanwhile, Power Trip Festival will end on October 8 with performances from Metallica and Tool as co-headliners.
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