AC/DC’s Brian Johnson and Lady Gaga delivered an electrifying surprise performance of “Highway to Hell” as part of Apple TV+’s special “A Carpool Karaoke Christmas”. The holiday-themed episode, now streaming in the U.S. and globally on Friday, also features pop stars Dua Lipa and Chappell Roan in their own musical segments.
In Lady Gaga’s segment, host Zane Lowe, who serves as Apple Music’s in-house interviewer, made an unexpected stop to pick up rock legend Brian Johnson. In a fun twist, Johnson took the wheel while singing the AC/DC classic alongside Gaga, blending the worlds of rock and pop for an unforgettable ride. Johnson, ever the showman, humorously ended the bit by quipping, “I don’t have a license.”
During their chat, Lady Gaga shared a lesser-known connection to AC/DC, revealing that she was an extra in the “Stiff Upper Lip” music video at just 17 years old. “I was headbanging in the back, and they told me not to because they wanted it to look modern,” Gaga recounted. “But I was like, ‘No, there’s only one move I can do!’”
The “Carpool Karaoke” special, a spinoff of James Corden’s “Late Late Show” hit segment, combines star-studded singalongs with heartfelt anecdotes. Gaga’s crossover moment with Johnson highlights her deep appreciation for rock, bridging generations of music fans.
Adding to the excitement, AC/DC will return to the United States for their first tour in nearly a decade in 2025, marking a highly anticipated comeback. Supporting them on the trek will be The Pretty Reckless. The tour coincides with the band’s 2020 album “Power Up,” which topped the Billboard charts and served as a triumphant return to form for the iconic group.
AC/DC’s current lineup features Johnson on vocals, guitar legend Angus Young, rhythm guitarist Stevie Young, drummer Matt Laug, and bassist Chris Chaney. Fans can expect an electrifying setlist celebrating both classics and new hits, making 2025 a monumental year for rock enthusiasts.
This unexpected duet on “A Carpool Karaoke Christmas” not only thrilled fans but also showcased the timeless appeal of “Highway to Hell”, proving once again that AC/DC’s influence transcends genres. Whether through surprise performances or upcoming tours, AC/DC continues to solidify its place as one of rock’s most enduring and dynamic bands.