Judas Priest

Judas Priest is a legendary British heavy metal band formed in Birmingham in 1969, and is widely considered one of the pioneers and most influential acts in the genre. Known for their twin guitar attack, powerful vocals, and leather-and-studs image, Judas Priest helped shape the classic sound and style of heavy metal. The band found major success with albums like “British Steel” (1980), which featured anthems such as “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight.” Their 1982 album “Screaming for Vengeance” included the hit “You've Got Another Thing Comin’,” which became one of their signature songs and expanded their popularity in the U.S. They continued their reign through the 80s with albums like “Defenders of the Faith” (1984) and “Painkiller” (1990), the latter considered a speed metal classic. Frontman Rob Halford, often called the "Metal God," is renowned for his wide vocal range and theatrical performances. After briefly leaving the band in the 1990s, Halford returned in 2003, reuniting the classic lineup and reigniting their legacy. Judas Priest has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022 for their musical excellence and contribution to metal. They are also credited with popularizing the leather-and-studs aesthetic now synonymous with heavy metal culture.