Judas Priest Guitarist Glenn Tipton Elaborates On His Battle With Parkinson’s Disease
Earlier this year, we reported that Glenn Tipton would be retiring from touring with Judas Priest due to his struggle with Parkinson’s disease. While there was initially some confusion regarding his role on their newest album, Firepower, it appears that Tipton has been and plans to remain active in Judas Priest’s recording process while producer Andy Sneap will take his spot on the road.
Tipton has now revealed a bit more about his physical condition. Here is his statement:
“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“
What a humble guy. Let this not be the end of an era for Priest, but a chance for new beginnings. Get dates for Judas Priest’s tour (which just began) here, and check out the new album’s lead single below.
