Ex-AC/DC Bassist Admits He Was Fired Because He Didn’t Take It Seriously

Former AC/DC bassist Mark Evans has opened up about his time with the iconic rock band and the circumstances that led to his departure. Speaking to ABC News In-Depth, Evans reflected candidly on the period, admitting that his own approach contributed to the split.

“The separation was difficult,” Evans said. “I was the right guy for the band when I started. Looking back, there’s only one reason I didn’t continue on with the band, is ’cause I didn’t take it seriously enough. It all happened so easily that I probably didn’t give it its correct weight.”

Behind the Scenes of the Firing

Evans played with AC/DC from 1975 to 1977, leaving shortly after the recording of Let There Be Rock. While the official reasons for his exit included “musical differences” and personality clashes with guitarist Angus Young, the reality was more layered.

Malcolm Young wanted a bassist who could contribute backing vocals, a requirement Evans could not fulfill. This need led to the recruitment of Cliff Williams, whose experience and vocal abilities fit the band’s evolving style. The change highlighted AC/DC’s growing ambition and the increased demands of their live performances.

Chaos, Change, and Perspective

Evans’ departure coincided with a turbulent era for AC/DC. The band was dropped by their U.S. label and embroiled in a violent altercation involving Malcolm Young and Black Sabbath’s bassist Geezer Butler, which resulted in AC/DC being removed from a European tour.

Despite the abruptness of his firing—Evans learned of it during a birthday party when Malcolm Young told him his time with the band was ending—he has maintained a reflective and respectful view. In his autobiography, Dirty Deeds: My Life Inside/Outside of AC/DC, Evans explores the challenges, internal dynamics, and shifting demands that influenced his departure, while honoring the legacy of the band he helped shape.