Legendary Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton has announced he is stepping down from active touring with Judas Priest. He has revealed a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease that has become to overwhelming to manage.
Parkinson's disease is an incurable (but treatable) degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the motor system. Tipton revealed he was diagnosed with the disease 10 years ago, but had been fighting it off and managing to life a comfortable lifestyle. However, things have gotten imaginable lately.
Tipton said he will continue writing and recording music with Priest, but cannot go on the road. For the band's already scheduled upcoming tour, they will be getting help from renowned producer and founding Sabbat guitarist Andy Seap. Here is the full statement from Priest:
GLENN TIPTON/JUDAS PRIEST DIAGNOSED WITH PARKINSONS:
Ten years ago Glenn was diagnosed to have the onset of the early stages of Parkinson’s – from then until recently Glenn has lived his life as the great heavy metal guitar player he has always been, maintaining by his own definition a standard of quality and performance that is incredibly important.Right now Glenn is able to play and perform some of the Priest songs that are less challenging but due to the nature of Parkinson’s progression he wants to let you all know that he won’t be be touring as such –
True to the metal spirit of ‘the show must go on’ Glenn has requested Andy Sneap to fly the flag on stage for him
“I want everyone to know that it’s vital that the Judas Priest tour go ahead and that I am not leaving the band – it’s simply that my role has changed.
I don’t rule out the chance to go on stage as and when I feel able to blast out some Priest! So at some point in the not too distant future I’m really looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful metal maniacs once again.”
Rob, Richie, Ian and Scott have this to say:
“We have been privileged to witness Glenn’s determination and steadfast commitment over the years, showing his passion and self belief through the writing, recording and performing sessions with Priest – he is a true metal hero!
We are not surprised by Glenn’s insistence that we complete the Firepower tour and thank Andy for joining us to make Glenn’s wishes become real –As Glenn has said we also can’t wait to have him with us at any time any place on the road…..
We love you Glenn!”
We wish nothing but the best to Tipton, who has grinded for over 40 years in the name of heavy metal.
