Open Letter from Angus Young to Klaus Meine and the Entire Rock Band Fanbase
Dear Klaus,
First off, I want to express my deepest respect and admiration for the legacy you and your band have built. You and the Scorpions have, without question, defined the essence of rock music, just as AC/DC has done over the years. Our paths have crossed many times over the decades, from the stages we’ve shared to the conversations behind the scenes, and it’s always a pleasure to reflect on the years of brotherhood we’ve all shared in this incredible world of rock and roll.
As a musician and a lifelong fan of the genre, I think it’s hard not to acknowledge the profound impact that each and every one of us has had on shaping this beautiful, wild world of music. But in doing so, I feel it’s also essential to acknowledge the ones who helped shape us — the fans. The ones who packed out arenas, sang every lyric with raw passion, and kept this spirit of rock alive even when the world around us seemed to be changing in ways we couldn’t understand.
I’m writing this letter to both you, Klaus, and to the rock fans who have been with us through thick and thin, because the journey we’ve shared, the victories and the struggles, deserve to be recognized. I’ve always believed that music transcends boundaries and time, but when we look at what we’ve all been a part of, it’s clear that something truly special exists in the bond between rock musicians and our fans.
A Shared Love for Music and the Fans Who Make It Possible
When I first picked up a guitar as a kid, I never could have imagined how far this wild ride would take me. From the dusty clubs to the massive stadiums, from the struggles of making ends meet to playing on stages where the crowd felt like the heartbeat of the world, every moment has been shaped by one thing: the power of music.
But more than that, it’s been about the connection between the music and the fans. We all know that it’s not just the notes we play or the words we sing. It’s the way our songs resonate in your hearts, the way the anthems we create become the soundtrack to your lives. I often hear from fans how AC/DC’s music got them through hard times or gave them that jolt of energy they needed when they felt like the world was on their shoulders. I know you’ve heard similar stories, Klaus.
There’s a reason why bands like Scorpions, AC/DC, and others who have been around for decades are still rocking stages worldwide. It’s not just because we’ve had great success. It’s because of the fans who continue to support us. You guys are the real rock stars — the ones who turn up every night, who sing the lyrics louder than we can, and who live for that electric energy between the stage and the crowd.
The Evolution of Rock and Roll
Let’s talk about evolution for a moment. We’ve all seen rock music grow, morph, and evolve, sometimes in ways we didn’t expect. We’ve seen changes in the way music is consumed, from vinyl to cassettes, to CDs, to digital streaming. We’ve seen styles shift, trends come and go, and new generations of fans discover our music.
But in the heart of it all, rock music has remained constant. The feeling, the raw energy, the rebellion, the joy — that has never changed. And no matter how much the world around us shifts, it’s clear to me that the spirit of rock and roll is immortal. There is something timeless about the energy we create when we come together. When we play, when we hear the roar of the crowd, it’s as if we’ve tapped into a force that transcends time and space.
It’s no secret that the rock genre has had its ups and downs over the years, with many questioning its future in an ever-evolving music industry. But I’ve always believed in the resilience of rock, and more importantly, in the power of the fans who continue to keep that flame burning.
To Klaus, My Friend, and Fellow Rocker
Klaus, I have to say it’s been an honor to witness the incredible journey you and the Scorpions have had. Your voice is unmistakable, and the way you and the band have remained true to yourselves over the years is something I deeply respect. We’ve shared stages, tours, and many laughs, and every time I hear a Scorpions track blasting from the speakers, it reminds me of what we’re all doing here. We’re creating something bigger than ourselves. We’re giving the world a piece of what we believe in, and I’m proud to say that we’ve shared in that journey together.
The world of rock is full of legends, but there’s something that makes bands like ours stand out: We never stop. We keep pushing, keep rocking, and most importantly, we keep believing in the power of music. The Scorpions, AC/DC, and so many others are still doing this because it’s in our blood, and the fire that burns inside us is shared by the fans who have supported us for decades.
To the Fans Who Make It All Possible
Finally, to the fans — from the early days in small clubs to the massive stadiums where you all scream back at us, to the ones who found us just yesterday and those who have been with us from the beginning — thank you. We wouldn’t be here without you. Every note we play, every song we write, and every tour we embark on is for you. We rock because you rock.
As we continue this journey, let’s remember that rock and roll is more than just a genre. It’s a family, a movement, a force that unites us all. The music may change, the world may shift, but one thing remains constant — the love and passion we share for this thing we call rock.
So let’s keep rocking, Klaus, my friend. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries. And to all the fans, let’s continue to make noise and show the world that rock and roll will never die.
With respect and gratitude,
Angus Young
AC/DC
