Judas Priest was formed in 1969 in Birmingham, England, under the name Freight by schoolmates Kenneth “K.K.” Downing and Ian Hill. In 1970, Al Atkins — formerly of a band called Judas Priest — became their vocalist. K.K. Downing had actually auditioned for Judas Priest in 1969. With Atkins now joining Freight and the original Judas Priest no longer active, Downing suggested they adopt the name Judas Priest for their own band, believing it was a much stronger name.
Most of the early members of Judas Priest came from Birmingham or nearby towns. Drummer John Ellis (1969–1971), guitarist K.K. Downing, bassist Ian Hill, and vocalist Al Atkins were all from the nearby town of West Bromwich. Guitarist Glenn Tipton came from Blackheath, vocalist Rob Halford from the market town of Walsall, drummer John Hinch (1973–1975) from Lichfield, and drummer Dave Holland (1979–1989) from Northampton, which is near Birmingham. Drummer Les Binks (1977–1979), however, was from Portadown in Northern Ireland. Les Binks died 15 Mar 2025 (aged 73) in London. His body was cremated. Location of ashes is unknown.
Among later members, drummer Scott Travis is from Norfolk, Virginia, USA; vocalist Tim “Ripper” Owens is from Akron, Ohio, USA; and guitarist Richie Faulkner is from London, England. Touring guitarist Andy Sneap is from Belper, England, near Derby.
JUDAS PRIEST LOCATIONS
COVER ART
Colonel Alexander Gordon Mausoleum Sin After Sin)
LIVE ALBUMS
Nippon Budokan (Rising in the East)
MUSIC VIDEOS
PUBS
RESTAURANT
TATTOO STUDIOS
VENUES
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