Axl Rose to join AC/DC as lead singer after Brian Johnson forced to quit over hearing problems

'AC/DC band members would like to thank Brian Johnson for his contributions and dedication to the band throughout the years'

Axl Rose is joining AC/DC as the band’s new lead singer (Getty)

AC/DC have confirmed that Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose will join the band for their remaining dates of their Rock or Bust tour.

Rose, 54, is stepping in for singer Brian Johnson who has been forced to step aside after warnings of total hearing loss if he continued performing.

The band announced in a statement on 17 April that Rose had "kindly offered his support" to help the band meet its touring commitments.

"AC/DC band members would like to thank Brian Johnson for his contributions and dedication to the band throughout the years. We wish him all the best with his hearing issues and future ventures," the band said.

"As much as we want this tour to end as it started, we understand, respect and support Brian's decision to stop touring and save his hearing. We are dedicated to fulfilling the remainder of our touring commitments to everyone that has supported us over the years, and are fortunate that Axl Rose has kindly offered his support to help us fulfill this commitment."

The band continued, “The European stadium tour dates begin on May 7 in Lisbon, Portugal and run through June 12 in Aarhus, Denmark as previously announced. Following this European run of dates with AC/DC, Axl Rose will head out on his Guns N' Roses, 'Not In This Lifetime' Summer Stadium Tour.”

Johnson has not spoken to the press since the news was announced but close friend Jim Breuer, a comedian, said last month that the rock star felt "kicked to the kerb" by the band.

Guns N' Roses have reunited for the first time in two decades to play Coachella festival in California this weekend. Rose will carry on with the band's scheduled tour dates for the next two months.