Former AC/DC Drummer Chris Slade Retires at 79

Former AC/DC drummer Chris Slade announced his retirement from professional drumming at age 79, citing his age and the worsening effects of a stroke he suffered several years ago. The Welsh musician shared the news in a video posted to the Facebook page for his solo band, The Chris Slade Timeline, on August 22, 2026. "It's with a heavy heart that I'm announcing my retirement from drumming," Slade stated. He noted he had been drumming professionally since age 16, first with Tom Jones, and said, "I've had a good innings." Slade explained that a small stroke he had about seven years prior has deteriorated.