Why AC/DC Guitarist Malcolm Young Is 'Taking a Break'

April 5, 2014 -- Amid rumors to the contrary, AC/DC is not retiring, but one member of the band is taking a break.

Guitarist Malcolm Young is ill, according to the band's website.

"After forty years of life dedicated to AC/DC, guitarist and founding member Malcolm Young is taking a break from the band due to ill health. Malcolm would like to thank the group’s diehard legions of fans worldwide for their never-ending love and support," the band wrote. "In light of this news, AC/DC asks that Malcolm and his family’s privacy be respected during this time. The band will continue to make music."

Young, 61, founded the band in 1973. AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson told the Telegraph newspaper that it's possible the band will be recording as soon as next month.

"We are definitely getting together in May in Vancouver," he said. "We're going to pick up some guitars, have a plonk, and see if anybody has got any tunes or ideas. If anything happens, we'll record it."