AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck” in Düsseldorf: Proof That Rock Legends Never Lose Their Power

AC/DC’s July 8, 2025 performance of “Thunderstruck” in Düsseldorf was nothing short of electrifying—a night that will be etched in the memories of everyone who filled the sold-out Merkur Spiel-Arena. For decades, AC/DC has been synonymous with pure rock and roll power, and this show was living proof that, even after all these years, the band remains at the top of their game.

The energy in the stadium was palpable from the moment the first crowd members streamed through the gates. Fans spanning multiple generations gathered, some proudly wearing faded tour shirts from the band’s legendary 1991 and 2009 German shows. The anticipation was building, with many in the crowd reminiscing about the first time they heard “Thunderstruck” blast through their speakers decades earlier.

As the lights dimmed and the familiar thunderclap sound effect echoed through the arena, an eruption of cheers signaled that something big was about to happen. Angus Young, still rocking his signature schoolboy outfit, took center stage with his unmistakable energy. From the first riff, it was clear that “Thunderstruck” would be the night’s main event.

Brian Johnson, never one to disappoint, strutted onto the stage, his cap pulled low and his voice cutting through the roar of the crowd with that signature gritty power. He greeted the audience in German before launching into the song, and the crowd instantly matched him, shouting every word of the chorus with wild enthusiasm.

The arena transformed into a sea of bouncing fans as Angus unleashed his legendary guitar licks, moving back and forth across the stage with seemingly endless stamina. His signature duckwalk, perfected over decades, drew waves of cheers and even inspired some of the younger fans to mimic his moves.

Cliff Williams’ bass thundered through the stadium, locking in with Phil Rudd’s steady drumming to provide the engine behind the song’s relentless momentum. Together, the rhythm section drove “Thunderstruck” forward, giving every note that unmistakable AC/DC punch.

One of the highlights of the night was the audience participation—tens of thousands of fans raised their hands and joined in for the iconic “na-na-na-na-na” chant, creating a wall of sound that reverberated throughout Düsseldorf. It was a testament to how “Thunderstruck” has become more than just a song; it’s an anthem that unites generations.

The staging and lighting were as bombastic as the music, with strobes and lightning effects perfectly timed to every beat. Flames shot up from the stage during each chorus, and bursts of pyrotechnics punctuated every guitar solo, reminding everyone that an AC/DC show is as much a visual spectacle as it is a musical one.

For many long-time fans, this performance of “Thunderstruck” brought back memories of AC/DC’s 1991 Monsters of Rock tour, when the band first conquered German stadiums with the same song. Comparing then and now, the consensus was clear—AC/DC’s energy hasn’t faded a bit.

Social media buzzed with live videos and photos, many fans expressing disbelief at just how powerful the band still sounded. Comments like “These guys are always on top!” and “AC/DC never disappoints!” trended throughout the night, adding to the show’s legendary status.

After the final notes of “Thunderstruck,” the band paused to soak in the standing ovation, clearly moved by the sea of waving arms and glowing phone screens. Angus and Brian exchanged a knowing grin, aware they’d just delivered a performance that would be talked about for years to come.

Even after so many decades, AC/DC’s concerts remain a rite of passage for rock fans. The Düsseldorf show, especially this thunderous rendition of “Thunderstruck,” reminded everyone why the band continues to pack stadiums around the world.

As the crowd poured out into the night, echoes of the song lingered in the air. Groups of fans were still singing the chorus on the subway and in the streets—proof that AC/DC’s music remains as infectious and powerful as ever.

The Düsseldorf “Thunderstruck” performance will go down as one of the highlights of AC/DC’s 2025 tour. For both the band and their fans, it was a night when time stood still and rock and roll reigned supreme, just as it always has for this legendary group.

AC/DC continues to set the gold standard for live rock performances, and nights like this are a testament to their enduring power. If you ever needed proof that rock is alive and well in 2025, you only had to be in Düsseldorf on that unforgettable summer night.