Rare Footage of AC/DC’s Brian Johnson Powering Through Toto’s “Hold The Line” Resurfaces Online

In what initially seems like an AI-generated rock fantasy, Brian Johnson of AC/DC can be seen performing Toto’s 1978 hit “Hold The Line.” However, this electrifying rendition is entirely real—and it’s rapidly gaining traction online in 2025, particularly on TikTok and YouTube.

The footage dates back to September 2001, just two months after AC/DC wrapped up their Stiff Upper Lip tour. Johnson, returning to his roots, embarked on a short six-show tour with Geordie II—a nod to Geordie, the band he fronted before joining AC/DC in 1980 following Bon Scott’s passing.

The mini-tour was confined to the North East of England, with performances in Newcastle (twice), Hebburn, Stanley, South Shields, and Middlesbrough. The opening night took place at Newcastle’s Opera House, a 1,200-seat venue where only 800 lucky attendees witnessed the unique concert.

Joining Johnson onstage were guitarist Derek Rootham, bassist Dave Robson, and drummer Dave Whittaker—none of whom were part of the original Geordie lineup. The band played a blend of cover songs and older material associated with Johnson’s previous band, including the traditional folk track Wor Geordie’s Lost His Liggie and the single Can You Do It, both dating back to 1973.

However, the setlist leaned heavily toward covers, reflecting Johnson’s musical upbringing and rock sensibilities. Audiences were treated to renditions of The Animals’ We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, Nina Simone’s Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood, Led Zeppelin’s Rock And Roll and Black Dog, Rainbow’s Since You’ve Been Gone, and AC/DC’s own Whole Lotta Rosie. But the most surprising—and now viral—moment came when Johnson tackled Toto’s Hold The Line.

Dressed in a Newcastle United football shirt, Johnson delivered the song in his trademark gritty style. Rather than mimic Bobby Kimball’s smooth, soulful vocal, he reimagined the track with the raw intensity of Back In Black, resulting in a bold and surprisingly effective performance that’s captivated a new generation of fans.

Beyond the stage, Geordie II also spent time in the studio. They recorded two tracks during their brief tenure: a fresh version of Wor Geordie’s Lost His Liggie and a rendition of Byker Hill, a traditional folk song from the early 1800s. While the former has the feel of a communal football chant and could easily serve as an AC/DC intro tape, the latter blends hard rock with an unexpected sea-shanty twist.

Both studio recordings were later released on two 2001 compilation albums—The Northumbria Anthology: From Tees to Tyne and From Tyne to Tweed. These albums also featured contributions from notable Northern musicians like Bryan Ferry (Roxy Music), Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), and then-MP David Clelland.

The full Geordie II concert from Newcastle’s Opera House is now available on YouTube, allowing rock fans old and new to witness this rare and remarkable moment in Brian Johnson’s musical journey.