Paul Matters

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Paul Matters

Who was Paul

Paul Matters was a bass guitarist best known for his brief tenure with AC/DC during the early days of the band. Although his time with the band was short, his association with AC/DC has made him a figure of interest among fans of the band’s early history. Here's an overview of Paul Matters’ life and his time with AC/DC:

Early Life and Career:

Paul Matters was born in 1952 in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. He grew up during a time when rock and roll was exploding in popularity, and like many young musicians of his generation, he was influenced by the sounds of bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and the emerging hard rock acts of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Matters played in several local bands around Newcastle before he was recruited by AC/DC in 1975, during a period of lineup changes as the band was solidifying its roster.

Legacy:

While Paul Matters’ time with AC/DC was short-lived, his connection to the band ensures that his name remains a part of rock history. His story is a reminder of the many musicians who pass through the ranks of famous bands, contributing in their own way to the music that would go on to define an era.

Time with AC/DC:

Paul Matters joined AC/DC as their bass guitarist in 1975, replacing the band’s previous bassist, Rob Bailey. His tenure with AC/DC was during the period leading up to the release of their second Australian album, "T.N.T." Although Matters played with the band during live performances, he did not contribute to any of their studio recordings.

Matters’ time with AC/DC was brief and ended somewhat abruptly. According to various accounts, including statements from former band members, Matters was fired by the band’s lead singer, Bon Scott, after just a few weeks. The exact reasons for his dismissal have been the subject of speculation, but it’s generally believed that it was due to personal and musical differences.

After Matters left AC/DC, he was replaced by Mark Evans, who would go on to record several albums with the band and become a key member during their rise to international fame.

Life After AC/DC:

Following his departure from AC/DC, Paul Matters largely stepped away from the music industry. Unlike many of his former bandmates, Matters did not continue in the public eye, and little is known about his activities in the years following his brief time with the band.

In later years, Matters spoke occasionally about his time with AC/DC, offering a rare glimpse into the band’s early days and the dynamics within the group during that formative period.

Death:

Paul Matters passed away on October 14, 2020, at the age of 68. His death was noted by AC/DC fans and music historians, particularly those interested in the band's early lineup and history. Despite his brief stint with AC/DC, Matters remains a part of the band's story, representing the turbulent and rapidly changing lineup during the early years of what would become one of the most successful rock bands in history.