My last year: Judas priest Announces Retirement After 2026 World Tour….Read more ⬇️⬇️⬇️
“My Last Year”: Judas Priest Announces Retirement After 2026 World Tour
Heavy metal fans around the globe are feeling a wave of emotion as legendary band Judas Priest has officially announced their retirement following a final, global 2026 world tour. After more than five decades of pioneering heavy metal and electrifying audiences with their high-octane performances, the band will take one last lap around the world before hanging up the leather and studs for good.
The tour, fittingly titled “My Last Year,” will mark the end of an era for a band that helped define heavy metal from the 1970s onward. Featuring core members Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill, Scott Travis, and Richie Faulkner, the band promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans old and new.The Final Chapter of Metal Gods
In an emotional statement, frontman Rob Halford, known for his soaring vocals and iconic stage presence, reflected on the decision:
“We never thought this day would come, but after decades of giving our hearts to metal, it’s time to take our final bows. This tour is for the fans. You’ve kept the flame alive. We owe it all to you.”
The announcement, made through a video on the band’s official social media channels, was met with a mixture of celebration and sorrow. Fans around the world shared memories, photos, and concert footage, expressing gratitude for Judas Priest’s impact on their lives and the genre.Tour Details and Global Stops
While full dates have yet to be announced, the 2026 farewell tour will reportedly cover North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and Australia, including major festival appearances and intimate arena shows.
The setlist is expected to span their entire discography, from early classics like Sad Wings of Destiny to recent releases like Invincible Shield (2024). Fans can expect crowd favorites such as Breaking the Law, Painkiller, Hell Bent for Leather, and You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’.
There are also rumors of guest appearances by past members and fellow rock legends, making this tour a once-in-a-lifetime event.A Legacy Like No Other
Judas Priest’s contribution to heavy metal is unparalleled. Formed in Birmingham, England in 1969, they became trailblazers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Their twin-guitar attack, aggressive stagewear, and Rob Halford’s operatic vocals set the standard for the genre.
Over the years, they’ve released over 18 studio albums, sold more than 50 million records, and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Rob Halford, a pioneer not just musically but culturally, made headlines when he came out as gay in 1998—becoming one of the first openly gay frontmen in metal and a hero to fans everywhere.What’s Next for the Band Members?
Though Judas Priest as a touring entity will retire, individual members have hinted at continuing with side projects.
- Rob Halford may focus on solo work and advocacy.
- Richie Faulkner, who joined the band in 2011 and helped reinvigorate their sound, has his own band, Elegant Weapons.
- Glenn Tipton, battling Parkinson’s disease, will likely remain involved creatively behind the scenes.
In short, while Judas Priest may be ending their touring career, the spirit of Priest will live on.Fans React
The fan response has been overwhelming. Social media lit up with tributes:
“Judas Priest was my gateway into metal. I’m gutted, but what a ride it’s been.”
“No band defined metal for me like Priest. Thank you for the memories.”
“You gave us everything. Let’s send you off in style!”
Some are already planning to travel across countries to attend multiple stops on the tour.Tickets, Merch, and More
Ticket pre-sales will begin in early 2026, with VIP packages, exclusive meet-and-greets, and commemorative merch available. A special documentary chronicling their final year is also in production, promising behind-the-scenes access to their swan song.
There are even talks of a live album and farewell concert film, to be released following the tour’s conclusion.The End… But Also the Beginning
As Judas Priest prepares to ride off into the heavy metal sunset, one thing is certain: their influence will never fade. From Metallica to Iron Maiden, countless bands owe a debt to the blueprint that Priest laid down.
In Halford’s words:
“We may be saying goodbye, but the metal will keep roaring. Priest will live forever in your hearts—and in your speakers.”
Raise your horns, wear your leather, and get ready to scream for vengeance one last time. The metal gods are going out with a bangs