Former Judas Priest guitarist K. K. Downing seems eager to reunite with his former band, stating he would “absolutely” perform with them at their potential Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction.
Back in October, the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame announced the list of artists who had received nominations for its class of 2020. In addition to “frequent flyers” like Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails, Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, MC5, and the six-time nominated Kraftwerk, more than half of the list was made up of debut nominees.
In fact, the list of first-timers featured huge names like Pat Benatar, Dave Matthews Band, The Doobie Brothers, Whitney Houston, Motörhead, The Notorious B.I.G., Soundgarden, T.Rex, and Thin Lizzy, while Judas Priest and Todd Rundgren entered the list for the second time.
Although it’s amazing that Judas Priest were only nominated for the second time, despite being eligible since 1999, the topic of the band’s lineup when they potentially perform at the induction ceremony was recently raised by former guitarist K. K. Downing.
Noting that he would be happy to reunite with his former bandmates, having performed with them from 1969 until 2011, Downing admitted he was unsure if would be invited to the ceremony considering he was now a past member of the group.
“It’s often said that funerals bring people together,” he added. “That’s not to say that getting in the Hall of Fame’s a funeral, but this could maybe have an effect that it just gives us the opportunity to get together and get on the stage and just enjoy the moment, really.”
Check out K. K. Downing talking to Rockin’ Metal Revival:
Now, in a new interview with the Rockin’ Metal Revival (via Blabbermouth), K. K. Downing has again touched on the topic, noting there is “absolutely” a chance of reuniting with the band and performing at their potential induction, which he labelled a “once in a lifetime” opportunity.
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“I think absolutely,” Downing explained. “I mean, why wouldn’t you, really? It’s a special thing.
“We’re all of an age now. These opportunities only come once in a lifetime. And it seemingly takes a lifetime to get into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. I always say, there’s no such thing as a young legend, right?
“So, while we’re still here, it would be great to receive that accolade and put on a great performance and put that one to bed.”
Judas Priest were last in Australia earlier this year when they performed blistering sets at the Download Festival in Melbourne and Sydney. The group are gearing up to embark upon their 50th anniversary tour next year, with Rob Halford telling Rolling Stone they’ve got “some really big surprises” in store.
No word yet if this involves a return of K. K. Downing, but anything is possible, it seems.
Check out ‘Breaking The Law’ by Judas Priest:
