Judas Priest is an English heavy metal band formed in Birmingham in 1969. The band’s original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Rob Halford, guitarists K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer John Hinch. The band’s music is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and Halford’s soaring vocals.
Judas Priest rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s with hits such as “Breaking the Law,” “Living After Midnight,” and “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’.” They are known for their iconic leather-and-studs look, which has become synonymous with the heavy metal genre.
In addition to their music, Judas Priest is also known for their influence on the heavy metal genre and their role in popularizing the “New Wave of British Heavy Metal” in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their impact on rock and metal music is immeasurable, and their music has influenced countless bands in the genre.
Judas Priest continues to perform and record music to this day, and their legacy as one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time continues to grow. They have won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.
1. ‘Evening Star’
Judas Priest's 'Evening Star' has a unique sound, showcasing Halford's impressive vocal range and Tipton and Downing's creative metal riffs. The song's lyrics convey a message of hope and perseverance in the face of darkness. Its mix of powerful melody and hard-rock intensity make it an instant fan favorite.
If betraying someone could sound this good, we'd all be doing it – 'Victim of Changes' by Judas Priest.
2. ‘Victim of Changes’
This iconic heavy metal ballad, which is often regarded as one of Judas Priest's masterpieces, made its debut on their 1976 album 'Sad Wings of Destiny'. 'Victim of Changes' has a unique mix of heavy riffing and haunting vocals that showcase the band's mastery in combining different genres. The song has earned many accolades over the years for its impeccable structure and its portrayal of pain and regret.
The track begins with a mellow acoustic guitar intro before it explodes into a full-blown electric guitar riff. It then transitions smoothly into Rob Halford's soaring vocals, which capture utmost agony convincingly. The song's central solo is also exceptional, featuring a dual guitar segment followed by some intricate fingerpicking.
Interestingly, 'Victim of Changes' derives from two distinct songs – 'Whiskey Woman' and 'Red Lights,' composed by Al Atkins and K.K. Downing respectively, during their pre-Judas Priest era. However, they later combined those two songs to form this epic masterpiece.
Overall, 'Victim of Changes' is an unforgettable classic that transcends time and genre boundaries alike. Its astounding musicality teamed with the profound emotions it portrays makes it worth repeated listens for anyone who loves good music.
Don't miss out on adding this legendary piece to your heavy metal playlist!
Get ready for a heavy metal ride that will leave you feeling 'Exciter'-ed and shaking your head like a true headbanger.
3. ‘Exciter’
Judas Priest's ‘Exciter' is a heavy metal masterpiece that showcases the band's exceptional musical abilities and powerful vocals. This song has a raw energy that makes it stand out, and its iconic opening riff has become synonymous with metal music. Its lyrics speak of the thrilling experience of being alive and thriving on adrenaline, making it a fan favorite at live shows.
The intricate guitar work in ‘Exciter' is breathtaking, with Tipton and Downing trading riffs effortlessly. The song's fast-paced rhythm section is also noteworthy, with drummer Dave Holland keeping things tight and controlled throughout. Halford's soaring vocals tie everything together, delivering an unforgettable performance that never fails to electrify audiences.
Interestingly, ‘Exciter' was not released as a single despite its popularity among fans. Instead, it remains an underground classic that only true Judas Priest aficionados fully appreciate. Nevertheless, its impact on the world of heavy metal cannot be understated.
According to Rolling Stone Magazine's list of 'The 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time', Judas Priest's album 'Screaming for Vengeance', which features 'Exciter', ranks at #17.
If this song doesn't make you want to kick down a door and start a mosh pit, then you're not listening to ‘Painkiller’ right.
4. ‘Painkiller’
This particular song embodies the essence of true metal with its fast tempo and powerful riffs, making it a standout track among Judas Priest's extensive repertoire. The vocals resound with energy and force, matching the intensity of the instrumentals. 'Painkiller' has kept fans headbanging for years and will continue to do so for generations to come.
The iconic drum solo in the middle showcases Scott Travis’s impressive skills as a drummer, which contribute significantly to the song’s overall impact. Additionally, the lyrics draw inspiration from various mythological themes, giving it an epic touch that truly sets it apart.
One interesting detail about this song is that it was actually inspired by the Terminator character and was originally intended to be part of a movie soundtrack. However, Judas Priest ended up keeping it for themselves instead of giving it away to Hollywood. (Source: Ultimate Classic Rock)
Plug in and prepare to have your eardrums electrified with the dynamic duo of 'The Hellion' and 'Electric Eye'. Judas Priest brings the thunder and the noise in this powerhouse combo.
5. ‘The Hellion’ / ‘Electric Eye’
This section explores one of the iconic songs from Judas Priest's discography. The track in question is an amalgamation of two individual titles – 'The Hellion' and 'Electric Eye'. Here are some highlights about this classic tune:
- The song was released in 1982 as part of the legendary album 'Screaming for Vengeance'.
- The Hellion serves as an introduction to the main track, Electric Eye, with its fiery riffs and intense drumming setting up the tone for the rest of the song.
- Lyrically, the song talks about a futuristic surveillance state where technology monitors every move of citizens, reflecting on themes of paranoia and liberty.
- Guitarists Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing carve out a blistering guitar solo towards the end, showcasing their virtuosity and chemistry.
A notable fact about this song is that it has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, The Simpsons, and South Park.
Off to the races with 'Heading Out to the Highway' – it's the ultimate anthem for anyone who's ever needed to escape rush hour traffic.
6. ‘Heading Out to the Highway’
This particular track can be found on their 1981 album ‘Point of Entry’. It features impressive guitar work and a catchy chorus, which has helped it become a fan favorite. The song has often been played live during concerts, showcasing the band’s energy and passion for their music. The lyrics suggest a sense of freedom and rebellion, which adds to its appeal.
'Delivering the Goods? More like delivering a powerful punch of metal goodness straight to your ears.'
7. ‘Delivering the Goods’
This track, one of the best Judas Priest songs of all time, packs an unmistakable punch. 'Delivering the Goods' is a high-octane rock classic, with Rob Halford's soaring vocals and impressive range matched by Glenn Tipton and KK Downing's masterful guitar work. The driving rhythm section propels the song forward with intensity, leaving no room to catch your breath.
'Delivering the Goods' was released on the band’s fifth studio album, 'Hell Bent for Leather', in 1978. The album received critical acclaim upon its release and featured many of the band's staple tracks that helped establish them as one of metal's greatest influences.
It’s worth noting that ‘Delivering the Goods’ also holds special significance for fans who experienced Judas Priest’s stage presence during their heyday. During live shows, Rob Halford would ride onstage on a Harley Davidson while wearing leather pants – complete with ass-less chaps – adding to the theatricality and sheer badassery of their performances.
This iconic song remains a fan favorite even today due to its catchy riffs, pounding drums, and unforgettable chorus. After all these years since its release, it still stands as a testament to why Judas Priest has earned their status as heavy metal pioneers.
Who knew breaking the law could sound so good? Judas Priest did, and they turned it into a catchy, head-banging anthem.
8. ‘Breaking the Law’
This iconic track, which forms Judas Priest's eighth best song of all time, is an upbeat classic with hard-hitting riffs and a catchy melody that has stood the test of time. 'Breaking the Law' was released on the band's sixth studio album in 1980 and quickly became one of their most recognizable hits. Its powerful lyrics about rebellion and frustration resonate with audiences to this day. The song has been covered by numerous artists and featured in popular movies and TV shows.
Despite its popularity, many fans consider the true meaning behind 'Breaking the Law' to be open for interpretation. Some believe it refers to a real-life incident in which lead singer Rob Halford was arrested for stealing leather clothes as a teenager, while others argue it represents more general feelings of discontentment and disillusionment with societal norms.
Notably, 'Breaking the Law' has been credited with cementing Judas Priest's status as pioneers of heavy metal music in the 1980s. The song's infectious energy and rebellious spirit have resonated with millions of fans around the world over the past four decades.
‘Living After Midnight’ is the perfect theme song for all the nocturnal creatures out there, whether you're a night owl or a vampire. Just don't blame Judas Priest for your dark circles.
9. ‘Living After Midnight’
This Judas Priest classic is a definitive anthem for heavy metal fans. Its iconic riff highlights the band's outstanding guitar work and Halford's unique vocals. The song's lyrics about the nightlife and party culture make it relatable to generation after generation of rockstars.
Continue reading with the 10 Best Judas Priest Songs of All Time, and discover more Raw, hard-hitting anthems from one of the most influential bands in metal history.
Judas Priest's 'Living After Midnight' remains a popular hit because it not only embodies the spirit of rebellion synonymous with heavy metal but also features aggressive guitar riffs that are almost hypnotic. Its catchy chorus "Living after midnight, rockin' to the dawn" invites fans to join in and sing along at concerts worldwide.
Did you know that 'Living After Midnight' was inspired by Halford's own nocturnal habits? The singer has said that he often stayed up late into the night writing music, which resulted in this timeless classic.
Judas Priest said you've got another thing coming, but after listening to this song, we know we've got at least nine more things.
10. ‘You’ve Got Another Thing Coming’
This iconic track from Judas Priest's 1982 release 'Screaming for Vengeance' remains a fan favorite and one of the band's most recognizable songs. It features an instantly recognizable guitar riff, soaring vocals, and a fist-pumping chorus that has made it a staple of rock radio since its release. The song's message of empowerment and defiance against authority resonates with audiences to this day. Its success helped establish Judas Priest as one of the definitive heavy metal bands of the 1980s.
In addition to its commercial success, 'You've Got Another Thing Coming' has also garnered critical acclaim. It was named one of Rolling Stone magazine's '500 Greatest Songs of All Time', and continues to be included on lists of the best rock songs ever recorded.
What sets this song apart from other Judas Priest tracks is its accessibility – while the band is known for their high-octane riffs and complex song structures, 'You've Got Another Thing Coming' is straightforward and catchy enough to appeal to casual listeners as well as die-hard fans.
It's interesting to note that despite its ubiquity in pop culture, 'You've Got Another Thing Coming' almost didn't make it onto 'Screaming for Vengeance.' Lead vocalist Rob Halford initially took issue with the song's lyrics, feeling they were too simplistic compared to his usual introspective and nuanced approach. Thankfully, he was convinced otherwise by producer Tom Allom, who rightly believed that sometimes a great rock song doesn't need to be overly complicated.
All in all, 'You've Got Another Thing Coming' remains Judas Priest's most enduring hit. Its infectious energy and universal message have cemented its place in rock history – it's a song that will continue to resonate with fans old and new for generations to come.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
