Judas Priest band photo

Judas Priest's Ian Hill Bows Out: A Legend Retires, Uriah Heep's Dave Rimmer Steps In

By Jason •
As Ian Hill hangs up his bass after decades of heavy metal glory, a new chapter begins for Judas Priest with Dave Rimmer at the helm.

In a move that reverberates through the metal community, Ian Hill, the founding bassist of Judas Priest, has announced his retirement. His departure marks the end of an era for a band that has defined heavy metal since 1969. Stepping into the void left by Hill is Uriah Heep's Dave Rimmer, who recently proved his mettle by filling in during a pivotal concert at London's Eventim Apollo.

The news hit fans hard, as Judas Priest took to social media to share a heartfelt message: "It is with heavy hearts that we are sending out this personal message from our Ian....he has been the backbone of JUDAS PRIEST for so long and will be greatly missed by us all... We wish him well in his retirement and welcome Davey into the PRIEST family." The sentiment encapsulates the band's deep-rooted camaraderie and respect for Hill, who has been an unwavering force in the band’s lineup.

In his candid farewell, Hill revealed the physical toll that years of performing have taken on him, citing struggles with advanced arthritis that have made his once-legendary performances increasingly difficult. "I hate to say it, but that time has come," he expressed in a poignant message to fans. After sustaining a tendon injury during a recent show, Hill faced the grim reality of his situation, prompting the decision to retire and prioritize his health and family.

As he steps back from the spotlight, Hill reflects on a life dedicated to heavy metal, expressing gratitude for the incredible journey and the fans who have supported him. "There's not a day goes by where I don't give thanks for the incredible journey I've lived through," he shared, leaving fans with a heartfelt goodbye that resonates deeply in the metal community.

Dave Rimmer, who now takes on the monumental task of filling Hill's shoes, is no stranger to the hardcore rock scene, being a member of Elegant Weapons alongside Judas Priest's own Richie Faulkner. His pedigree assures fans that the legacy of Priest will continue unabated, as he prepares to take the stage with the legends who have shaped metal history.

As Judas Priest embarks on this new chapter with their latest album, 'Invincible Shield', currently making waves on the charts, fans can only hope that the spirit of Ian Hill continues to echo in the thundering riffs and soaring vocals of this iconic band.