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Artist News Gigs & Festivals
Judas Priest’s Glenn Tipton retires from touring
By Andy Malt | Published on Tuesday 13 February 2018
Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton is stepping back from the band’s touring activities due to the progression of the Parkinson’s disease he was diagnosed with a decade ago.
Tipton has continued to perform with the band since then, but according to a statement on the band’s website is now finding it harder to perform the band’s more complex songs live on stage. As a result, he’s decided to retire from touring full time.
“I want everyone to know that it’s vital that the Judas Priest tour goes ahead and that I am not leaving the band – it’s simply that my role has changed”, says Tipton. “I don’t rule out the chance to go on stage as and when I feel able to blast out some Priest! So at some point in the not too distant future I’m really looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful metal maniacs once again”.
The band will tour to promote their new album, ‘Firepower’, as planned, with the record’s producer Andy Sneap standing in on guitar.
Tipton’s bandmates say: “We have been privileged to witness Glenn’s determination and steadfast commitment over the years, showing his passion and self belief through the writing, recording and performing sessions with Priest – he is a true metal hero! We are not surprised by Glenn’s insistence that we complete the ‘Firepower’ tour and thank Andy for joining us to make Glenn’s wishes become real. As Glenn has said, we also can’t wait to have him with us at any time any place on the road”.
‘Firepower’ is due out on 9 Mar. Here’s the album’s title track:
