Gary Miller/Getty ImagesWith AC/DC set to wrap up its Rock or Bust World Tour tonight in Philadelphia, the band has posted on YouTube a video message from longtime bassist Cliff Williams in which he reiterates that he intends to retire from the road after the show.
In the clip, the 66-year-old rocker explains that his decision to retire isn’t necessarily related to AC/DC’s recent lineup upheavals that have led to the exit of founding rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young, as well as singer Brian Johnson and drummer Phil Rudd.
“It’s time for me to step out, that’s all,” Williams says in the video. “Not because we lost Mal, Phil or Brian…Everything changes, so it’s not that. It’s just, I’m just ready to get off the road.”
He continues, “In between tours we take a few years off, so I know how to do that. I know what I’m gonna do. And again, it’s just my time. I’m happy. I just need family time now, just [to] chill out and not do this. I’m all good.”
Reflecting on his time with AC/DC, Cliff adds, “I couldn’t have asked for anything more: Being with the people I’m with and have been, and being in this situation with this band, playing this music.”
At the start of the video, Williams also takes time to thank fans for supporting AC/DC on the latest trek. “It’s been a hell of a tour. It’s been great, he declares. “The audience, the fans, the support has been brilliant and we really appreciate ’em coming on out.”
News of Williams’ retirement plans first emerged in July, in an interview he gave to Florida-based magazine Gulfshore Life.
Cliff joined AC/DC in 1977, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2003.
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