Original Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has opened up about feeling a greater responsibility to keep the band’s music alive following bassist Ian Hill’s retirement from Judas Priest. The guitarist explained that preserving the band’s legacy has always been important to him, as the group began as his dream and eventually became his passion and life.
During an appearance on Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk, Downing was asked whether Hill’s retirement had made him feel even more responsible, as a founding member of Judas Priest, for keeping the band’s music alive onstage with KK’s Priest.
“I think the answer to that is kind of… even though it’s been dropped on me at a great height, but I think the answer to that would be yes, I think, really,” Downing replied.
He went on to explain that his connection to Judas Priest goes back to the band’s earliest days and that he always hoped its music would continue to reach audiences for as long as possible.
“Like I say, I started this band so long ago, and it became my dream and my passion and my life. And I always wanted it to keep on going, if it was at all possible,” the guitarist added.
Downing’s comments reflect the importance he places on preserving the music he helped create. Through KK’s Priest, he continues to perform classic heavy metal songs and riffs for audiences, keeping that musical legacy alive onstage.
The guitarist also made it clear that performing with his current band has left him feeling fulfilled. He explained that, despite the changes in his career, playing the songs with talented musicians still gives him the same satisfaction.
“And that’s kind of where we’re at. And I think every time I go out there, like tonight we’ll go out [with KK’s Priest], then I’ll play with the guys, I’ll be playing these songs, for me, nothing’s really changed,” Downing said.
“It’s great players, looking great, performing great and playing these great songs. And so I think I’m in a really, really happy place,” he continued.
Downing also invited fans to attend KK’s Priest’s upcoming shows, noting that the band has a busy schedule ahead. He emphasized that audiences can expect to hear the classic riffs and songs they know and love.
“Well, we’ve got a very heavy schedule, so I’ll be out there. I’d love to see everyone again if they wanna come down and check out, obviously, some classic Priest riffs and songs and sing along with us. Everyone’s more than welcome,” he said.
While Hill’s retirement marks a significant development for Judas Priest, Downing’s remarks underline his continued commitment to the music that shaped his career. With KK’s Priest keeping those classic sounds alive onstage, the guitarist appears determined to ensure that the legacy he helped build continues to connect with fans.
Source: Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk
