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Watch Judas Priest Discuss Their Future, and the Departure of K.K. Downing

Kory Grow — Thu, 26 May 2011 15:34:55 +0000

The members of Judas Priest recently held a press conference—in advance of their show-stopping American Idol guest spot last night—to discuss the future of the band, and what guitarist K.K. Downing’s departure means for the band. Check out what they had to say below.

K.K. Downing Issues Statement on Departure From Judas Priest

Web Dept — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:25:59 +0000

As previously reported, longtime Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing officially retired from the band yesterday, right before the band was to embark on their final world tour. At the time, no official reason had been given for his departure. Since then, however, the former Priest guitarist has issued the following statement:

“Dear friends,

It is with much regret that I will not be with you this summer. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your concerns about my health. Please rest assured that I am O.K. There has been an ongoing breakdown in the working relationship between myself, elements of the band, and the band’s management for some time. Therefore I have decided to step down rather than to tour with negative sentiments as I feel that this would be a deception to you, our cherished fans. However I would urge you to please support the Priest as I have no doubt that it will be a show not to be missed.

All my love and respect.”

British guitarist Richard Faulker will replace Downing on Judas Priest’s upcoming Epitaph Tour.

K.K. Downing Retires From Judas Priest

Web Dept — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 15:18:29 +0000

Judas Priest have just announced that original guitarist K.K. Downing has made the decision to retire from the band ahead of what was to be their final tour.

The official statement from the band reads:

“It is with regret that Judas Priest announce that K.K. Downing has formally retired from the band and will therefore not be joining them on their forthcoming Epitaph Tour.

“The band respect his decision and naturally all wish him well.”

The band have confirmed that they will continue with their touring plans, with British guitarist Richie Faulkner (Lauren Harris) stepping in to replace Downing in the touring lineup through 2012. Judas Priest were also writing new material for what was to be their final album, which also tentatively looks to still be in the works. Downing, 59, had been with Judas Priest since the band’s inception more than 40 years ago. No official reason for Downing’s sudden retirement has been given.

We here at Revolver wish K.K. all the best and thank him for many great years of music and memories. Tell us some of your favorite K.K./Priest stories in the comments!