GayC/DC founders Chris Freeman and Steve McKnight sit down with Paul Cashmere to talk AC/DC, Bon Scott, guitar swing, charity work and bringing their high-energy rock show to Australia.
Formed in 2013, GayC/DC began when members of an all-gay Go-Go’s tribute realised their chemistry went far beyond one project. A spontaneous riff on Back In Black sparked the idea for a full-throttle AC/DC tribute that celebrates the music while reframing it through queer culture, humour and theatrical flair.
In this in-depth interview, Freeman and McKnight discuss why AC/DC’s songs barely need rewriting, how Big Balls takes on an entirely new meaning on a GayC/DC stage, and why honouring the groove of Malcolm Young and Phil Rudd is non-negotiable. McKnight breaks down the myth that AC/DC is “simple rock”, revealing the time changes, swing and nuance that make the band so hard to replicate.
Freeman also opens up about stepping into the role of lead singer for the first time, the physical demands of performing Angus Young-level energy night after night, and how GayC/DC balances fun with musical integrity.
The conversation also touches on GayC/DC’s charity work, including their recent recording of Hold Your Head Up for an LGBTQ+ and abuse-prevention foundation, and an unexpected Australian connection linking the song back to Bon Scott and Fraternity.
With GayC/DC heading to Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Sydney, this interview is essential viewing for AC/DC fans, tribute-band lovers and anyone curious about how rock history can be celebrated with pride.
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