KK's Priest band photo

K.K. Downing Chronicles KK'S PRIEST's Thrilling North American Assault

By Jason •
The legendary guitarist shares tales from the road alongside W.A.S.P. on a tour that's igniting the metal scene.

Metal fans, brace yourselves! K.K. Downing, the iconic guitarist of KK'S PRIEST, has opened the floodgates on his North American tour experiences, and it’s a ride you won't want to miss. Kicking off on September 10 in El Cajon, California, this six-week journey alongside heavy metal titans W.A.S.P. is set to culminate on Halloween in Anaheim, California, promising bone-rattling performances and electrifying energy.

In an exclusive with BLABBERMOUTH.NET, Downing shared, "Hi there. K.K. checking in, on tour. I think it's now nine shows in 10 days. Totally awesome." The tour has already taken the band to fascinating locales like Santa Fe, where Downing marveled at the historic town and even boarded a heavy metal railway engine reminiscent of his childhood Westerns. "Absolutely fantastic," he remarked, highlighting the architectural wonders he’s encountered along the way.

As KK'S PRIEST storms through Texas, with San Antonio on the docket for tonight, Downing reflected on the band’s recent show in Dallas and the thrill of connecting with fans old and new. “We’re out here with the legendary W.A.S.P., total awesome outfit,” he noted, praising Blackie Lawless's timeless performance. The synergy between the two bands is palpable, creating a wave of nostalgia and excitement that resonates deeply with the audience.

Downing extended a heartfelt invitation to fans, urging them to catch the tour: “Check out the dates on the appropriate websites. And, yeah, it’s great to see. I’ve definitely been bringing back some classics — ‘The Sentinel’, ‘Turbo Lover’, ‘Heading Out To The Highway’ — and it’s fantastic to see those old tunes still hitting hard with the younger crowd.” With a setlist that spans both JUDAS PRIEST classics and tracks from their own albums, KK'S PRIEST promises a night of heavy metal glory.

The band’s current lineup features a powerhouse of talent, including former JUDAS PRIEST member Tim "Ripper" Owens, guitarist A.J. Mills, bassist Anthony Wall, and drummer Sean Elg. Their latest album, "The Sinner Rides Again", released in September 2023 through Napalm Records, is a testament to their relentless spirit and commitment to the metal genre.

As KK'S PRIEST continues to carve its path through North America, Downing’s passion for the music and the history of the places they visit shines brightly. This tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of metal, legacy, and the unbreakable bond between artists and fans. So gear up and get ready for a night of ear-splitting riffs and unforgettable moments. See you in the pit!