The Australian rock community is grieving the loss of Irene Thornton, the former wife of legendary AC/DC frontman Bon Scott, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 75.
A Life Connected to a Rock Legend
Her death was confirmed by an official AC/DC fan page on social media, which posted a heartfelt tribute. The statement expressed deep sadness, noting that while Irene was married to Bon Scott from 1972 to 1977, the pair remained close friends until his tragic death in 1980.
The fan page described Thornton as being very affectionate with fans and always willing to share memories of her time with the iconic singer. Adelaide-born Thornton holds the unique distinction of being the only wife of the late singer, who fronted the Aussie rockers from 1974 until his death.
The couple first met in 1971, married the following year, and though they separated in 1977, they maintained a strong friendship. They stayed in contact right up until Scott's death at just 33 years old from acute alcohol poisoning.
AC/DC's Enduring Tribute to Bon Scott
The news of Thornton's passing comes as AC/DC themselves are back in the spotlight, having recently kicked off their first Australian tour in over a decade. The band played to a packed house at Melbourne's MCG, delivering a set filled with classics.
However, one iconic song was notably absent from the setlist: It's A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll). This was no simple oversight. The band has not performed the legendary track live for more than four decades, having shelved it following Bon Scott's death.
The song, released in 1975 as the first track on the album T.N.T., became so synonymous with the original frontman that his replacement, Brian Johnson, vowed never to perform it live. Former bass player Mark Evans revealed that even when Scott was alive, the song was rarely played live, partly due to the logistical challenge of its famous bagpipe riff.
A Record-Breaking Homage Outside the Stadium
While fans inside the MCG didn't hear the song, a massive tribute occurred just outside the venue. An impressive 374 pipers gathered at Melbourne's Fed Square to break the world record for the largest bagpipe ensemble, playing along to the classic AC/DC track and smashing the previous record of 333.
Meanwhile, on stage, founding guitarist Angus Young, 70, showed his legendary energy, and singer Brian Johnson, 78, commanded the crowd in a sleeveless Harley Davidson shirt. The band continues its Power Trip tour with upcoming shows in Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane.
The passing of Irene Thornton marks the loss of a cherished figure who provided a personal link to one of rock music's most unforgettable eras and a beloved frontman.
