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. "I'm really jealous of people like The Rolling Stones or Paul McCartney who are going well into their 80s, and I wanted to do that, but it looks like I can't," he said, ending with, "So, as I say, with a heavy heart, it's bye for now."

The announcement followed a health incident last month. On July 25, 2026, Slade's band canceled a performance at Italy's Brudstock Festival after he fell and seriously injured his ribs, requiring hospital treatment. "Being a very old man, I fell over and I've hurt my ribs very badly," he said at the time, calling the cancellation devastating.