Few bands have defined the heavy metal genre like Judas Priest. With a career spanning over five decades, this iconic British band has delivered some of the most powerful and groundbreaking music in rock history. Their influence on the metal scene is undeniable, with their leather-and-studs aesthetic, twin guitar harmonies, and Rob Halford’s piercing vocals setting the standard for generations of metal bands to follow. But what truly sets Judas Priest apart is their ability to craft unforgettable anthems that resonate with fans across the globe.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular Judas Priest songs of all time. From the high-octane adrenaline rush of their early hits to the darker, more complex tracks that marked their evolution, these songs are the very essence of heavy metal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Priest, this list is a testament to the band’s enduring legacy and the timeless power of their music. Prepare to crank up the volume, because these tracks are guaranteed to make you want to throw up the horns and headbang like never before!
1. “Breaking the Law” – 1980
Released on the seminal album British Steel, “Breaking the Law” is one of Judas Priest’s most iconic tracks. From the moment the unmistakable opening riff kicks in, this anthem of rebellion grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go. The song’s punchy, straightforward structure, combined with Rob Halford’s snarling vocals, immediately resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the need to defy authority. The music video, featuring the band staging a heist, has become legendary in its own right. “Breaking the Law” is more than just a song; it’s a rallying cry for the disenfranchised, a timeless metal classic that continues to inspire fans and bands alike.
2. “Painkiller” – 1990
When Judas Priest released “Painkiller” in 1990, they redefined what it meant to be a heavy metal band. The title track from their twelfth studio album is a relentless assault of blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and Halford’s soaring, almost superhuman vocals. The song tells the story of a mythical savior who rides the skies to deliver humanity from destruction—a fitting metaphor for the band’s triumphant return to form after a period of turbulence. “Painkiller” is a metal masterpiece, a track that pushes the boundaries of speed and intensity, setting a new standard for the genre that still holds up decades later.
3. “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” – 1982
From their album Screaming for Vengeance, “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” is perhaps Judas Priest’s most commercially successful single. The track’s driving beat and empowering lyrics about determination and resilience struck a chord with a wide audience, propelling it into heavy rotation on rock radio and MTV. The song’s infectious energy makes it an enduring favorite at Judas Priest concerts, where fans still sing along with fervor. “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” is more than just a hit; it’s an anthem of defiance that encapsulates the spirit of rock and metal.
4. “Living After Midnight” – 1980
Also from the British Steel album, “Living After Midnight” is a celebration of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. With its catchy, upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus, this song became an instant classic that perfectly captures the spirit of the early ’80s metal scene. The lyrics, inspired by Rob Halford’s nocturnal habits, speak to the freedom and excitement of living life on your own terms. It’s a feel-good track that has earned its place as a staple of Judas Priest’s live performances, proving that metal can be both hard-hitting and irresistibly fun.
5. “Hell Bent for Leather” – 1978
A track that truly set the tone for Judas Priest’s image and sound, “Hell Bent for Leather” is a high-octane anthem from their Killing Machine album (released as Hell Bent for Leather in the U.S.). The song’s fast-paced, aggressive rhythm and tough-as-nails lyrics perfectly embody the band’s leather-clad image that would become synonymous with heavy metal. It’s a short but powerful track that showcases the band’s ability to craft tight, energetic songs that get straight to the point. This song remains a fan favorite and is often the climax of their live shows, complete with Halford riding a motorcycle onto the stage.
6. “Electric Eye” – 1982
One of the standout tracks from Screaming for Vengeance, “Electric Eye” is a futuristic, dystopian epic that still feels relevant today. The song opens with “The Hellion,” a powerful instrumental introduction that seamlessly transitions into the riff-heavy “Electric Eye.” The lyrics tell the tale of a Big Brother-like figure who watches over everything, a chilling commentary on surveillance and loss of privacy. Musically, the song is a tour de force, featuring some of the band’s most intricate guitar work and Halford’s piercing vocals at their best. “Electric Eye” is a prime example of Judas Priest’s ability to combine thought-provoking themes with headbanging riffs.
7. “Turbo Lover” – 1986
“Turbo Lover,” from the Turbo album, marked a departure from Judas Priest’s traditional sound by incorporating synthesizers and a more polished production style. Despite the initial controversy among fans, the song has since become a beloved track that showcases the band’s willingness to experiment and evolve. The lyrics, which blend themes of love and machinery, are paired with a driving, hypnotic groove that’s impossible to resist. “Turbo Lover” stands as a testament to Judas Priest’s versatility and their ability to create unforgettable hooks that resonate long after the song has ended.
8. “The Hellion/Electric Eye” – 1982
While technically two separate tracks, “The Hellion” and “Electric Eye” are almost always played together, creating one of the most memorable openings in heavy metal history. “The Hellion” is a powerful, short instrumental that serves as the perfect buildup to the explosive “Electric Eye.” Together, they set the stage for Screaming for Vengeance, an album that solidified Judas Priest’s place among the metal elite. The transition from the soaring guitar harmonies of “The Hellion” to the relentless drive of “Electric Eye” is nothing short of exhilarating, making this pairing a highlight of any Judas Priest experience.
9. “Beyond the Realms of Death” – 1978
A deep cut from the Stained Class album, “Beyond the Realms of Death” is often hailed as one of Judas Priest’s most powerful and emotionally charged songs. The track alternates between haunting, melodic verses and explosive, heavy choruses, showcasing the band’s dynamic range. The lyrics, exploring themes of despair and escape, are delivered with raw intensity by Rob Halford, making this song a profound and moving experience. “Beyond the Realms of Death” is a masterpiece of contrasts, blending beauty and brutality in a way that few other metal songs have ever achieved.
10. “Victim of Changes” – 1976
One of the earliest examples of Judas Priest’s ability to craft epic, multi-faceted songs, “Victim of Changes” from the Sad Wings of Destiny album is a tour de force of heavy metal. The track’s nearly eight-minute runtime is filled with dynamic shifts, from slow, bluesy sections to explosive, high-energy riffs. Halford’s vocal performance is nothing short of legendary, with soaring highs and guttural lows that convey the song’s emotional depth. “Victim of Changes” is a quintessential Judas Priest track, showcasing the band’s early brilliance and setting the stage for their future as metal pioneers.