Original Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has shared his first reaction to bassist Ian Hill’s recent retirement announcement. Hill is stepping away from the band due to health issues. Downing made his comments during an appearance on Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk.
The statement addressed Hill’s decision to step away from the band after a long career. Downing acknowledged the length of Hill’s tenure and the circumstances behind his departure.
“Well, it has been a very, very long time for everyone, and obviously if you do have some certain issues with your health, then you have to succumb when you get the call, I suppose,” Downing said. “But, like I say, Ian had — it was a long, good career, and very successful career.”
Downing then reflected on his own past with the band. He noted that Hill had not supported his return several years ago.
“Yeah, obviously, it’s a bit awkward for me because it’s a pity that Ian didn’t accept me [back] in the band a few years ago [when Glenn Tipton retired from touring],” he continued. “I would be there now, even though he isn’t. But I wish him well, and all the best for the future.”
Downing’s remarks add a personal angle to a departure that has drawn wide attention across the metal world. Here is the background on Hill’s exit and what comes next for the band.
Hill was Judas Priest’s longest-serving member. He joined in 1970 and stayed with the group for more than five decades. Across that run, he played on all 19 of the band’s studio albums, up to 2024’s Invincible Shield.
Hill announced his retirement on Friday, Oct. 9. It took effect immediately. He pointed to worsening arthritis that affects both shoulders, his right hand and both knees. He also snapped a tendon in his left shoulder before a September show. He was unsure whether he could regain the strength needed to perform at full capacity.
“For a long time now, when asked ‘how long can you continue,’ I’ve always answered ‘until my performances suffer,'” Hill wrote in his statement to fans.
Judas Priest plans to carry on. The band has welcomed Davey Rimmer, formerly of Uriah Heep, as Hill’s replacement. The group described Hill as its “backbone” in its announcement.
