AC/DC rocked by new tragedy with death of former band member Paul Matters

Legendary Aussie rock band AC/DC have suffered another tragedy with the passing of their former bass guitarist.

Paul Matters played with the band in 1975 before being fired by late lead Singer Bon Scott.

He joined the band following the release of their debut album, High Voltage, but was replaced within weeks by Mark Evans.

He reportedly called time on his music career following his exit from AC/DC.

News of his death on Wednesday was confirmed by his friend Rod Wescombe, who said he will be “missed by all who knew him”.

“Shocked and sad to hear of the passing of Paul Matters,” Mr Wescombe said.

“I first met Paul in 1973 when he was playing bass in Armageddon at a gig in Hamilton, Newcastle NSW.

“When I was living in Toronto he would drop into the house in the late hours to party and he loved to party.

“In late ‘75 after he departed AC/DC we played together in a one off band called Miss Australia Band at a gig on a ferry on Lake Macquarie.

“I recall he could always make me laugh when he was in the mood.

“From all reports he lived a reclusive life in his later years and his early rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle led to ailing health.”

Matters’ death comes three years after the passing of founding AC/DC member Malcolm Young.

The legendary guitarist was 64.

AC/DC are yet to comment on Matters’ death.