AC/DC singer gets honorary degree

AC/DC singer Brian Johnson has been awarded an honorary degree.

Returning to his native North East of England, the rock frontman was awarded the title of doctor of music by Northumbria University for the “significant contribution he has made to the music industry”.

Johnson, who was born in Dunston, Gateshead, has one of the world’s most instantly recognisable rock voices.

He joined AC/DC in 1980 as lead vocalist and his first album with the group, Back In Black, went on to sell more than 22 million copies in the US alone.

Professor Andrew Wathey, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Northumbria University, said: “It is fitting that we honour one of the most distinctive voices in rock music, who is also a native of the North East.

“Northumbria University has a strong tradition of partnership working in the region’s cultural and creative sectors, and our students’ union has long been a focus for key bands who have gone on to achieve worldwide success.

“It is interesting to reflect on the importance of culture to collective life of the North East and of the cultural industries as a major UK export.

“Brian Johnson symbolises both of these things and, moreover, has been an inspiration to generations of young musicians over several decades.”