Turns out we will indeed be seeing a familiar face behind the drum kit during AC/DC’s performance on the Grammys this weekend. After rumors started to spread this past week, drummer Chris Slade has confirmed he’s returning to AC/DC in light of Phil Rudd’s recent legal troubles.
While speculation began earlier this week, Slade’s return to AC/DC seemed like a sure thing after he was spotted with the band at a Grammy event. Today, though, Slade issued the following statement confirming that he will be joining AC/DC at the Grammys AND on tour in support of their latest album Rock Or Bust:
“This is an amazing opportunity for me, after all most people don’t ever get to play with their favorite band once, let alone TWICE! I would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming support I have been shown personally, on the Facebook page and other social media, not one comment has gone unread and it has been very humbling, Thanks so much. We apologize for the secrecy, please understand this was for all the right reasons.”
Slade first joined AC/DC in 1989 (having appeared on The Razor’s Edge and the live album AC/DC Live), but parted ways with them in 1994 when the band wanted to give Rudd another shot. Ironically, now Slade is being brought in to take over for Rudd (though last we heard from Rudd, he seemed to still be in denial). AC/DC still hasn’t officially commented on Slade’s return, though the drummer’s statement, his appearance at the Grammy event, and band’s subtle posting seems to be all the confirmation one needs.
