April 20, 2011 13:45
Guitarist KK Downing quits Judas Priest Judas Priest Tickets
Downing retires after 42 years in the band
KK Downing, pictured left
Photo: PA Photos
Judas Priest guitarist KK Downing has quit the band.
Downing, who is a founding member of the Birmingham metal legends and has been part of the group since 1969, announced his retirement from the group this morning (April 20).
The band issued a statement on their official website, Judaspriest.com about his departure.
The statement reads: "It is with regret that Judas Priest announce that KK Downing has formally retired from the band and will therefore not be joining them on their forthcoming tour. The band respect his decision and naturally wish him well."
The band have announced that Richie Faulkner, currently guitarist in the backing band for Lauren Harris (daughter of Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris) will replace Downing for their live shows.
They are due to tour throughout the summer and will play seven UK dates in July. They previously said that this will be their last tour, but they will continue to write and record together.
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| Date/Time | Venue | Town/City | Seetickets | Viagogo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 26, 2012 18:30 | Hammersmith Apollo | Hammersmith | Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
| May 26, 2012 19:00 | Hmv Hammersmith Apollo | London | Tickets not currently available. |
Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
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Listen to more Free Music at we7.com| Date/Time | Venue | Town/City | Seetickets | Viagogo |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 26, 2012 18:30 | Hammersmith Apollo | Hammersmith | Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
| May 26, 2012 19:00 | Hmv Hammersmith Apollo | London | Tickets not currently available. |
Buy Judas Priest Tickets |
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