Glenn Tipton, the guitarist for Judas Priest, announced on Monday (March 12) that he was suffering from Parkinson’s Disease and would not be participating in the band’s Firepower Tour.
Tipton was diagnosed with the disease ten years ago but it had only progressed to the point where it was affecting his playing. Andy Sneap is sitting in with the band on the road.
On Wednesday, Tipton issued a statement on his situation:
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
Tipton joined Judas Priest in 1974 as the band’s second guitarist, joining K.K. Downing who had been their lone guitar player from their forming in 1969. He has played on all of the band’s albums.
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