Ian Hill retires from Judas Priest after 57 years

Ian Hill, the longest-serving member and founding bassist of the British heavy metal band Judas Priest, has announced his retirement after approximately 57 years with the group. Hill, 74, cited advanced arthritis affecting his shoulders, hands, and knees as the primary reason for his departure, stating that his physical condition had reached a point where it would impact his performance quality.

The decision follows a recent incident during the band’s European tour when Hill suffered a torn tendon in his left shoulder during a concert in Brussels. This injury prevented him from performing at a subsequent show in London, where Davey Rimmer, a bassist for Uriah Heep and Elegant Weapons, stepped in as a temporary replacement.

Judas Priest has confirmed Davey Rimmer as Hill’s permanent successor. Despite his retirement, Hill noted that he had already recorded the bass lines for the band’s upcoming studio album. Hill, who joined the band in 1970, expressed a desire to spend more time with his family following his decades-long career in the music industry.