The metal world was dealt a pretty heavy blow yesterday with the announcement that legendary Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton would be stepping down from the band's live performances after a diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease. 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 managed to live a comfortable lifestyle throughout that time. However, things have gotten unimaginably difficult for him lately.
Now Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford has opened up to Kerrang about the situation, offering nothing but love and support for his longtime bandmate.
"There's been a lot of emotion today with the announcement, but we're very happy for Glenn, that he's been able to make a decision that's good for him and where he's at right now. Glenn's thing was that this was all about the band. It was the band, the band the band. And we said, 'No, it's about what's best for you,' and he said, 'No, I want what's best for the band.' Which just goes to show you where his heart is at."
"The most important thing is that Glenn is still in Judas Priest. It's just that his role is going to be different. He can't tour, but it's going to be great for fans when he comes out every now and then to do 'Breaking The Law' or 'Living After Midnight'. The love that we've had already has been amazing, and I know when he walks onstage whenever we do that, it's going to be something special."
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 Sneap.
