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JUDAS PRIEST Guitarist Glenn Tipton Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease
February 12th, 2018

Glenn Tipton – guitarst with Birmingham, England-born heavy metal band Judas Priest – has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and will be stepping down from future touring duties.

In an official statement, Judas Priest said: “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 (producer and current Hell guitarist) to fly the flag on stage for him.”

Seventy-year-old Glenn Tipton commented: “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.”

Tipton’s bandmates added: “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!”

Judas Priest released their 18th full-length studio album Firepower on March 9th, 2018. The outing was recorded with longtime collaborator Tom Allom, producer Andy Sneap, and engineer Mike Exeter.