Last month, longtime Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton announced that he'd been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, forcing his exit from the legendary group's upcoming tour behind new album Firepower. Producer Andy Sneap was later tapped as his replacement. (Former Priest axeman K.K. Downing wasn't exactly pleased with the lineup change, and sparked some mild drama over it.)
Today, March 14th, Tipton has posted a message on Judas Priest's website explaining the circumstances behind his exit, thanking his fans and bandmates for their support, and teasing potential new projects with the band.
"By now many of you will know I won't be doing the forthcoming Judas Priest tour because of health issues," the statement begins. "I'm so sorry, but four years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson's and was told by my specialist that I had already had it for over ten years. I knew something was wrong with my co-ordination and fluency regarding my playing but I worked around it, and battled on.
"I have good days and bad days but the disease is degenerative and I would never want to compromise the greatest metal band in the world. It was therefore during the last rehearsals I decided to step down and have Andy Sneap fill in. He's a great guy and I'm sure he'll do a great job — I'm sure the band will be as strong than ever."
"I have been overwhelmed by the massive support and love I've had from other artists and from fans all over the world and from many friends and metal maniacs out there," continues Tipton. "It's not the end for me: I'll still be able to write and record and on good days even join the band on stage for a few songs."
"With new medication and advances being made, who knows what the future holds? But one thing's for sure - it will certainly involve Priest!" he concludes.
