Back In Black (And White Stripes...)

AC/DC drummer (former drummer?) Phil Rudd will be wearing the black and white stripes soon if the recent allegations against him are proved to be true. Rudd joined the legendary band in 1975, before leaving in '83, with the band stating 'personal problems' and conflict with rhythm guitarist and founding member Malcolm Young, who tragically has also had to leave the band in recent months. However Rudd rejoined the band in 1993, and has been with them until the recent legal troubles he faces.

On November 5th Rudd was arrested and charged with attempting to procure murder (ie hire a hit man...) threatening to kill the arresting officers and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis. Rudd has previously been convicted for drug offences in 2010, however the charges were dropped so he could still tour with AC/DC. Although the procuring murder charge has been dropped for there not being enough evidence I highly doubt he'll get off with it so easily this time. Rudd faces up to 7 years in prison if he gets found guilty.

But let's be fair, when it comes to rock stars, or famous people in general, they don't exactly get the prison sentences they normally deserve... Stay tuned for my next post on rock star arrests.

The only statement the rest of AC/DC have released so far is via their Facebook page, "We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking. We have no further comment. Phil’s absence will not affect the release of our new album Rock or Bust and upcoming tour next year." And with the release of the new video for 'Play Ball,' the first single to be released from up coming 17th studio album 'Rock or Bust,' where Rudd has been replaced with drummer Bob Richards. Nothing has been confirmed by the either AC/DC or any other involved party as to whether Rudd is out for good, but it's looking likely.

'Rock or Bust' is released 2nd December 2014.
Rudd is due in court over the allegations November 27th.