Ac/Dc And The Roadie Who Tattooed The Setlist On His Back

April 3, 2025

The summer of 1981 was electrifying, and not just because AC/DC was on the road with their iconic album “Back in Black.” The air crackled with anticipation as fans flocked to each concert, ready to rock out to the powerful riffs and thunderous beats. Among the crew was a passionate roadie named Jake, whose dream was to be part of the music world in a bigger way. He had spent years backstage, setting up equipment, earning the trust of the band, and living for the moments when the crowd roared to life. But one day, he decided to take his dedication to a whole new level.

As Jake watched the band perform night after night, he felt a wave of inspiration wash over him. He loved the energy of their shows; each song was a story told through guitar solos and thunderous drums. One evening, sitting backstage after a sold-out show, Jake had an idea that was impulsive and bold. What if he tattooed the setlist on his back? It would be a permanent tribute to the band and a testament to the unbreakable bond he felt with their music. His friends laughed at first, but they could see the fire in Jake’s eyes. That night, he found an artist willing to help him turn his passion into ink.

The tattoo process was painful, but Jake embraced it. With each line etched onto his skin, he felt more connected to AC/DC and their message of resilience and power. When it was finally done, he stood in front of the mirror, feeling like a true warrior, marked by the music he loved. He knew that every note sung and every chord struck had shaped him, and this tattoo was his way of honoring that journey. Soon, he was not just a roadie; he was a walking testament to the spirit of rock and roll.

Word about Jake’s tattoo spread quickly through the crew and eventually reached the band. When AC/DC’s lead singer, Brian Johnson, saw the setlist on Jake’s back, he was moved. “That’s commitment, mate!” he exclaimed, clapping Jake on the shoulder. The band invited him to join them on stage for one performance, where Jake proudly showed off his tattoo to thousands of screaming fans. In that moment, he felt as if he was not just backstage but part of the show, living his dream amid the lights and the music.

That night transformed Jake’s life. The band’s recognition gave him newfound confidence, and he knew he wanted to make a career in music. Inspired by their passion and dedication, he returned to work with even more enthusiasm. He began to help with sound design and even wrote a few songs, earning the respect of his peers. AC/DC’s support became a beacon of hope, reminding him that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how outlandish they may seem.

Years later, Jake would look back on that summer with fondness. He was still a roadie, but he had also become a vital part of the music community, always striving to uplift others with the same passion he once felt. The tattoo remained a reminder of his journey, a symbol of how far he had come and the power of dreams. AC/DC had not just given him a setlist; they had ignited a spark that would burn bright for a lifetime, proving that music has the ability to change lives in the most unexpected ways.