Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill retires after 56 years
Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill has announced his retirement after 56 years with the band. Hill cited advanced arthritis in his shoulders, hands and knees, saying he had always intended to continue until his performances suffered. Uriah Heep's Davey Rimmer will fill in on bass for the rest of Judas Priest's tour dates.
Ian Hill has retired from Judas Priest after 56 years. He said arthritis had advanced in his left shoulder, right hand, right shoulder and both knees, and he had used painkillers, gels and cortisone injections. A snapped tendon in Brussels left him unable to lift his arm to reach his bass.
Davey Rimmer, of Uriah Heep and Elegant Weapons, covered for him in London and will handle remaining tour dates. Hill joined in 1970 and appeared on all 19 studio albums, including 2024’s Invincible Shield. Judas Priest also released The Ballad Of Judas Priest documentary, co-directed by Tom Morello.
For Judas Priest fans and heavy metal audiences, Hill’s retirement may mark the end of a long-running era, prompting reflection on aging in touring music. Fellow musicians and crew could feel practical effects as Davey Rimmer steps in, while arthritis sufferers may see a familiar figure acknowledging physical limits. The band’s remaining shows may continue smoothly, but longtime listeners could experience the lineup change as an emotional milestone.