Rob Halford has commented on Ian Hill’s departure from Judas Priest. He shared his first message about his longtime bandmate’s retirement in a post on Instagram.
The statement followed Hill’s retirement announcement, which he made because of ongoing health issues. Halford posted a photo with Hill alongside a brief message.
“‘Metal blessings peace be with you.’ Heavy metal ink steel metal community faith hope joy spirit believe kindness unconditional love family friends fans one world peace respect all,” Halford said.
Hill had earlier explained why he was stepping away. He cited his struggle with arthritis as the reason.
“I hate to say it, but that time has come,” Hill said. “For some years now, I’ve been struggling with the onset of the evil arthritis, which is now in an advanced state in my left shoulder and right hand, established in my right shoulder, and present in both knees. I’ve been fighting this with painkilling pills, gels, and recently with cortisone injections in my shoulder and hand.”
Hill also named his preferred successor and thanked everyone for his career with the band.
“The obvious choice for my replacement is Davey,” he said. “He’s a great bassist, and a genuinely nice bloke who’ll fit the job perfectly, and I wish him the very best of luck! There’s not a day goes by where I don’t give thanks for the incredible journey I’ve lived through, and it just remains for me to say that I love you all, and thank you for the life you’ve let me live.”
Hill announced his retirement on October 9. The decision ended a 56-year run with Judas Priest. The 74-year-old musician is the band’s longest-serving member, and his retirement took effect immediately.
The “Davey” Hill mentioned is Davey Rimmer. Rimmer has played bass for Uriah Heep since 2013. He also performs in Elegant Weapons alongside Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner.
Rimmer has already played with Judas Priest. Last month, Hill missed his first show with the band in 56 years because of a severe tendon injury to his left arm. Rimmer stepped in for the band’s London show at the Hammersmith Apollo.
Hill’s health problems had therefore been visible to fans before the announcement. Rimmer will now take over the bass role going forward.
