Rob Halford, the vocalist for JUDAS PRIEST, advocates for the knighthood of Ozzy Osbourne
In a discussion with Classic Rock, Halford, whose band is set to unveil their upcoming album “Invincible Shield” in March, proposes that the former BLACK SABBATH frontman be honored for his significant contributions to the world of music.
“If one person deserves a knighthood, it’s Ozzy Osbourne,” Halford says. “Just for the joy he’s given people over the years.”
The camaraderie between the two singers spans several decades, with Halford even filling in for Ozzy during a BLACK SABBATH concert in New Jersey in 2004 when OZZY was battling bronchitis. Reflecting on the impact of BLACK SABBATH‘s music, Halford expressed, “When the Black Sabbath album came out and like everybody else, their sound shook me to the core,” as he shared with Metal Hammer back in 2017.
JUDAS PRIEST‘s 19th album, “Invincible Shield,” is slated for release on March 8, featuring the recent slow-burning single “Crown Of Horns.” Describing the track, Halford notes, “It’s quite a self-reflective song,” addressing themes of yearning for a loved one or embarking on a personal or spiritual journey. Halford also acknowledges the broader theme of unity, stating, “But it’s also a call for collective unity: ‘Raise your horns up high.’”
The announcement of the release date for “Invincible Shield” came on October 7, 2023, during the band’s performance at the Power Trip festival in Indio, California. The unveiling followed a powerful intro featuring BLACK SABBATH‘s “War Pigs,” with a striking graphic on video screens proclaiming “The Invincible Shield.”
Highlighting the metal resurgence, Halford remarks on the current state of the genre, citing JUDAS PRIEST, SAXON, IRON MAIDEN and others, proclaiming, “It’s a great time for metal.”
Among the band members, bassist Ian Hill remains the sole original member of JUDAS PRIEST, having been part of the formation in 1969. Rob Halford joined in 1973, and guitarist Glenn Tipton joined in 1974. After a brief departure in the early 1990s, Rob returned to PRIEST in 2003. Original guitarist K.K. Downing exited the band in 2011, making way for Richie Faulkner to step in as his replacement.
JUDAS PRIEST‘s upcoming “Invincible Shield” album signals a new chapter for the pioneers of heavy metal. With a rich history spanning over five decades, the band continues to evolve while staying true to their iconic sound. As the release date approaches, fans can expect a sonic journey that pays homage to the band’s enduring legacy and solidifies their place in the annals of heavy metal history. The “Invincible Shield” era is set to reignite the metal flame, reminding the world why JUDAS PRIEST remains an indomitable force in the genre.
JUDAS PRIEST, an iconic British heavy metal band, forged their enduring legacy with a powerful blend of robust guitar riffs, dynamic vocals, and leather-clad stage presence. Formed in Birmingham in 1969, the original lineup featured vocalist Al Atkins, guitarist KK Downing, bassist Ian Hill, drummer John Ellis, and guitarist Ernie Chataway. However, it was the subsequent additions of vocalist Rob Halford and guitarist Glenn Tipton that solidified the band’s classic lineup.
The group’s early albums, including “Rocka Rolla” (1974) and “Sad Wings of Destiny” (1976), showcased their evolving sound. It was with the release of “Sin After Sin” (1977) that JUDAS PRIEST began to make a significant impact on the metal scene.
Known for their leather-and-studs image, PRIEST reached new heights in the late ’70s and ’80s with albums like “British Steel” (1980) and “Screaming for Vengeance” (1982). Anthems like “Breaking the Law” and “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin‘” solidified their status as metal pioneers.
The 1990s saw lineup changes, but JUDAS PRIEST continued to thrive. The return of Halford in 2003 marked a triumphant reunion, leading to albums like “Angel of Retribution” (2005) and “Firepower” (2018). With a discography spanning over five decades, PRIEST remains an influential force, embodying the essence of heavy metal and inspiring countless bands in their wake.
