Who replaced Phil Rudd as AC/DC's drummer in 1983?

Simon Wright replaced Phil Rudd as AC/DC’s drummer in 1983.

Rudd’s first major departure from AC/DC came during the recording period for *Flick of the Switch*. Tensions with Malcolm Young, combined with Rudd’s substance-abuse problems, led to his dismissal. Wright, previously associated with the British band A II Z, won the job after an extensive search.

Wright’s tenure began in July 1983 and lasted until 1989. He played on *Fly on the Wall* and *Blow Up Your Video*, and also appeared on the soundtrack album *Who Made Who*. His muscular, straightforward style fit AC/DC’s established rhythm-section approach.

Chris Slade is a frequent source of confusion because he later replaced Wright in 1989 and then returned as AC/DC’s touring drummer in 2015. Matt Laug was a much later touring replacement, not Rudd’s 1983 successor.