Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton recently revealed that he's been suffering from Parkinson's Disease for over 10 years. He was diagnosed four years ago and kept it under wraps until he had to announce that while he'd played on Judas Priest's new album Firepower, he wouldn't be able to play with them live anymore. Filling in for him live would be well-known producer Andy Sneap.
Tipton has now spoken out a little more on his situation, saying he's still very interested in writing and recording with the band on his good days, and maybe even getting up on stage with them here and there.
“By now many of you will know I won’t be doing the forthcoming Judas Priest tour because of health issues—I’m so sorry but four years ago I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and was told by my specialist that I had already had it for over ten years – I knew something was wrong with my co-ordination and fluency regarding my playing but I worked around it and battled on – I have good days and bad days but the disease is degenerative and I would never want to compromise the greatest metal band in the world—it was therefore during the last rehearsals I decided to step down and have Andy Sneap fill in—he’s a great guy and I’m sure he’ll do a great job – I’m sure the band will be as strong than ever.
“I have been overwhelmed by the massive support and love I’ve had from other artists and from fans all over the world and from many friends and metal maniacs out there – it’s not the end for me – I’ll still be able to write and record and on good days even join the band on stage for a few songs – with new medication and advances being made who knows what the future holds – but one thing’s for sure – it will certainly involve Priest!
“Finally the biggest thanks goes to Rob, Richie, Ian and Scott who have stood by me and supported me through everything – GLENN“
We wish Glenn all the best with everything.
