Judas Priest Still Have the Firepower
Judas Priest is proving yet again why they remain one of the most celebrated bands in heavy metal. From a major new tour to intriguing insights on their past albums, tributes, and even a surprising nod to classic jazz, here’s everything fans need to know.
Hitting the Road with Alice Cooper
The band has announced a blockbuster co-headlining tour with Alice Cooper set for 2025. This 22-date run across the U.S. will also feature Corrosion of Conformity on select dates. For fans, it’s the perfect excuse to dust off the leather jackets and stock up on fresh merch, as this tour promises to celebrate decades of iconic music and showmanship.
The Mystery of the Ripper Owens Era
Long-time fans often wonder why albums from Judas Priest’s Tim “Ripper” Owens era, like Jugulator (1997) and Demolition (2001), remain absent from streaming services. Drummer Scott Travis recently shed light on this mystery, pointing to complex label rights issues. He noted that the omission isn’t intentional but is tied to ownership hurdles. Likewise, songs from this period rarely make it into the live setlist, largely due to limited show time and a focus on crowd favourites like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight.”
Rob Halford’s Jazz Ambitions
In a twist few saw coming, Rob Halford has expressed interest in recording a Tony Bennett tribute album. The Metal God joked about embracing this new challenge, saying, “I’m an old man, I can do what I want!” While just an idea for now, fans are already buzzing about what a Halford-meets-Bennett album could sound like and what unique merch might follow.
Heartfelt Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath
In a deeply emotional moment for metal fans, Judas Priest released a stirring studio cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs” just before Sabbath’s final performance. The track, notably used as Priest's iconic walk-on anthem, was offered as an homage to the late Ozzy Osbourne and metal’s shared heritage. Frontman Rob Halford expressed profound regret that Priest couldn’t attend the farewell concert on July 5 due to a prior commitment with Scorpions. Still, they channelled their respect through this powerful rendition, reinforcing that the bonds of metal camaraderie can transcend distance and schedule.
Why It Matters for Fans and Collectors
These developments aren’t just exciting for their musical impact; they create huge opportunities for collectors and fans. The upcoming tour means new T-shirts, posters, and special-edition items. The continued absence of the Ripper Owens albums could make any future reissues or vinyl releases highly sought after. And if Halford’s jazz project happens, expect merch that could appeal to both metalheads and jazz enthusiasts alike.
Judas Priest and the Fuel for Life
As Judas Priest approaches their sixth decade in music, they continue to push creative boundaries while honouring their legacy. From sold-out arenas to bold new musical ideas, they show no signs of slowing down. For fans, now is the perfect time to celebrate their journey, whether that means grabbing tickets, adding rare merch to your collection, or simply cranking up the volume on your favourite Priest anthem.
