AC/DC guitarist Malcolm Young confirms retirement and 'ongoing illness'

It was a bittersweet moment for AC/DC as they announced their founder’s retirement just before the release of their newest album Rock or Bust.

17:43 25 September 2014

Iconic Australian rock group AC/DC have announced that their founder, Malcolm Young, who is suffering from undisclosed illness, is leaving the band just before the release of their newest album Rock or Bust.

The 61-year-old rocker has decided to stop creating music and chose to not discuss his ongoing private illness. The band also promised to not discuss it.

In August, band members Brian Johnson, Angus Young, Phil Rudd, and Cliff Williams hinted that Young was weighing whether or not he will continue making music with the band.

Although Young worked extensively on their 15th album, which is due to be released on November 28, the remaining band members made it clear that he will not be touring or recording with them in the future.

AC/DC's label Alberts and Sony Music Australia confirmed the rumours of Malcolm's departure when they released a statement saying: 'unfortunately due to the nature of Malcolm’s illness, he will not be rejoining the band.'

Instead, Angus and Malcolm Young’s nephew, Steve Young, will be joining as rhythm guitarist, keeping it all in the family.