Ian Hill recently joined a conversation with Detroit Metro Times and shared his thoughts on the return of former bandmate KK Downing for their induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Judas Priest stepped onto the music scene in the late ’60s, and KK Downing was one of the founding members of the band alongside Ian Hill. The band started a very successful musical journey after its establishment, its songs and performances were receiving good feedback from both the listeners and the music circles. However, in the ’80s various problems started among the band members, which lasted long years.
The disagreements were mostly related to the dynamics within the band and the role of the members. Disagreements lasted until founding member KK Downing ultimately left in 2011. It wasn’t a very pleasant breakup, and many believed it was impossible for the Judas members and KK Downing to get back together. Even though Downing hasn’t played with his bandmates in years, recently, a reunion was announced.
The event that triggered this reunion is that Judas Priest will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The guitarist will be there to witness and perform, even though the details of the performance aren’t clear yet. Downing had made statements about this reunion before and expressed how excited he was, adding that although he was excited, it would be like riding a bike for him.
In a recent interview with the Detroit Metro Times, fellow founding member Ian Hill was asked about his thoughts on this reunion. According to Hill, this event might cause two things; it may either kickstart something between them or pull Judas Priest apart. Judging by Hill and Downing’s comments, the ice between the former bandmates appears to have melted.
Here is what Ian Hill thinks about reuniting with KK Downing:
“I think time is not on our side for that, you know? Never say never, put it like that. Downing’s gonna be there at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame anyway. He’s gonna get up and play some songs with us there. It might kickstart something; I don’t know. On the other hand, he might pull us all apart.”
During the ceremony, current Judas Priest members Rob Halford, Hill, Glenn Tipton, and Scott Travis, as well as former members Downing, Binks, and late drummer Dave Holland, will be inducted. The Los Angeles Microsoft Theater will host the 2022 Rock Hall induction ceremony on November 5. It will also be streaming on HBO Max.
