Ten years ago Glenn was diagnosed to have the onset of the early stages of Parkinson’s – from then until recently Glenn has lived his life as the great heavy metal guitar player he has always been, maintaining by his own definition a standard of quality and performance that is incredibly important
Right now Glenn is able to play and perform some of the Priest songs that are less challenging but due to the nature of Parkinson’s progression he wants to let you all know that he won’t be touring as such-
True to the metal spirit of ‘the show must go on’ Glenn has requested Andy Sneap to fly the flag on stage for him.
“I want everyone to know that it’s vital that the Judas Priest tour go ahead and that I am not leaving the band – it’s simply that my role has changed. 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”
Rob, Richie, Ian and Scott have this to 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…..
We love you Glenn!”
15 Responses
Dana??? As the resident priest fanatic I’d love to hear your take on what they should do since I think this is your favorite band. My take is very simple that they should retire. Not just Judas Priest but any band that does not have the bulk of original or long tenured members should retire the name and call it something else. I am a huge kiss fan and at this point in their career I would love to see them with no make up and call themselves something else and still put out music and tour. Obviously still play the classic tunes people want to hear also but let’s be honest if AC/DC calls themselves AC/DC at this point I will be very disappointed with Angus. And I was one of the few who actually did get to see axle Rose fill-in with AC/DC and it was one of the best concerts I have ever seen in my life plus it was extra special because not everyone got to see that. But I would not want them calling it AC/DC with Angus in the band as the only member left. Lastly if Judas Priest does cone or any of these bands come to my town I would be lying to say I would not go see them but I would still rather them be honest and bill themselves as something else
Thank you, Coredrum, for asking about my opinion.
I am shocked and so very saddened by this news. At this point, I don’t know what to think, as I am still processing the information. I pray, and hope, that Glenn’s situation will take a turn for the better, and that he will be able to pick up the guitar again without issue.
Currently, I am trying to be optimistic as I do not want to consider the band without both Tipton and Downing.
Again, thank you for asking me and I am sorry I couldn’t give you a better response.
Additionally, I understand your point regarding a band changing its name, when there are very few original members left. But as proven by Axl Rose, a band’s name is invaluable, and many keep it, unfortunately, for both monetary reasons and name recognition.
D
My heart sank when I read this, Tipton is the most underrated guitarist in rock and roll; he did so much for the music, and his expertise and deep roots made Priest the leaders of metal. A very sad day for sure….I don’t think they should do the tour…just a few dates that Glenn is up for, they made a pretty good record….I guess we’re all getting older huh? I remember when they were on top of the world, hanging out in those exotic locales and wearing those awesome cashmere sweaters. …and still putting out excellent music….my heart is heavy. Glenn Tipton, the guy who really was what David Cassidy wishes he could’ve been….the metal god.
Great music never gets old, unfortunately the great musicians who made that great music, do. If this is the “Beginning Of The End” for Glenn, I will “Never Forget” and always celebrate the life and music of Mr. Tipton!
Just an incredibly sad day today. Of all the death or retirement notices this one hits the hardest. Priest has always been That voice and those two guitars. The guitars are gone….
Getting older is a bugger sometimes. Glen must’ve given all he can these last ten years to just be revealing that he has this tough disease. I hope he’s eating well and doing all he can to slow the disease. There’s a lot of new research showing it’s possible to lessen the toll of this type of disease by eating a healthy plant based diet with supplements & vitamins. Hang in there Glenn. We’re all untied behind you brother and the band.
” United, united, united we stand,United we never shall fall, United, united, united we stand
United we stand one and all. So keep it up, Don’t give in, Make a stand, We’re gonna win!