Judas Priest Guitarist KK Downing Announces Retirement
Wednesday, 20 April 2011
Written by Jon Stickler
A shock announcement today has revealed that original Judas Priest guitarist KK Downing has decided to retire just weeks ahead of their farewell 'Epitaph' World Tour.
KK Downing was part of the original Judas Priest line-up playing alongside fellow guitarist Glenn Tipton to create the band's legendary twin-axe attack! News of Downing's early retirement arrived via a statement released by Judas Priest earlier today. The statement, which was posted via the Priest's website, said:
“It is with regret that Judas Priest announce that KK Downing has formally retired from the band and will therefore not be joining them in their forthcoming Epitaph tour.
“The band respect his decision and naturally all wish him well.
“Having thought long and hard about how to proceed, Rob, Glenn, Ian and Scott unanimously agreed that they should go ahead with the tour and not let the fans down all around the world.
“Fate has also stepped in and delivered the perfect replacement – 31 year old British guitar player Richie Faulkner – he has blended perfectly into the band and is a great talent who is going to help set the stage on fire.”
Judas Priest will play a number of festivals including a headline slot at London's High Voltage on July 23. Their UK tour is detailed below.
July 2011
Newport Centre - July 15th
O2 Apollo, Manchester - July 16th
The Dome, Doncaster - July 17th
SECC, Glasgow - July 19th
Metro Arena, Newcastle - July 20th
Civic Hall, Wolverhampton - July 21st
BIC, Bournemouth - July 24th
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