Judas Priest are an English heavy metal band formed in Birmingham in 1969. They have sold over 50 million albums[2] and are frequently ranked as one of the greatest….

Judas Priest, the iconic English heavy metal band, burst onto the scene from Birmingham in 1969, forever etching their name into the annals of rock history. With a career spanning over five decades, they have sold over 50 million albums worldwide and are consistently ranked among the greatest metal bands of all time.

While initially experimenting with a hard rock and psychedelic sound, their true identity solidified in the mid-1970s with a distinctive dual-guitar attack pioneered by Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, coupled with the unparalleled operatic vocal range of frontman Rob Halford. This potent combination, often cited as a cornerstone of heavy metal, set them apart and influenced countless bands that followed.

Their rise to mainstream success truly took hold with the release of *British Steel* in 1980, an album that not only showcased their anthemic songwriting but also cemented their iconic leather-and-studs imagery, which became synonymous with the genre. Hits like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight” became instant classics, propelling them to international recognition.

The 1980s saw Judas Priest continue their reign with powerful albums like *Screaming for Vengeance* (1982), featuring the enduring “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” and *Defenders of the Faith* (1984). Their relentless touring schedule and electrifying live performances further solidified their reputation as “Metal Gods.”

Despite a period of hiatus and lineup changes in the 1990s, including Rob Halford’s departure and eventual return in 2003, Judas Priest has consistently demonstrated their resilience and unwavering commitment to heavy metal. Their later works, such as *Angel of Retribution* (2005) and *Firepower* (2018), proved they could still deliver powerful and relevant music.

Judas Priest’s influence extends far beyond their impressive album sales and chart performance. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, a testament to their profound impact on music. Their innovative sound, distinctive image, and unwavering dedication to their craft have made them true pioneers and enduring legends of heavy metal.