An Open Letter from Richie Faulkner to Rob Halford, Fans, and the Entire Judas Priest Community**
Dear Rob, Fans, and the Entire Judas Priest Family,
As I sit down to write this, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of gratitude, humility, and reverence. Being part of Judas Priest has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I feel compelled to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has supported, inspired, and carried this legendary band through decades of heavy metal history.
Rob, your voice is nothing short of iconic. Your presence on stage, your commanding tone, and your unwavering passion have defined the sound of Judas Priest for generations. Your dedication to metal, your authenticity, and your ability to connect with fans on a deeply emotional level have always inspired me. Joining this band meant stepping into a legacy built on your voice and vision, and I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that journey.
To the fans—Judas Priest’s backbone—your loyalty and love for the band are what keep this fire burning bright. You have stood by us through the highs and lows, through album releases, tours, and moments of challenge. Your energy, passion, and unwavering support are what make every performance special. I am continually amazed by your dedication, your stories, and the way you embrace Judas Priest as part of your lives. You are more than fans; you are family. It is because of you that we are able to do what we love, and I promise to honor that trust with every note I play.
To the entire Judas Priest community—the countless musicians, crew members, writers, and everyone behind the scenes—your hard work and unwavering commitment are the foundation that sustains this legendary band. Your efforts ensure that Judas Priest remains a force in the world of heavy metal, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike. It’s a collective effort, and I am proud to be part of this enduring family.
Reflecting on my journey with Judas Priest, I am aware of the responsibility I carry—not only to honor our past but also to contribute to our future. The band’s history is rich with groundbreaking albums, iconic performances, and moments of resilience. We have faced adversity and emerged stronger each time, and that resilience is what continues to define us. I am committed to upholding the integrity of Judas Priest’s sound while also bringing my own energy and ideas to the table.
Music is a universal language that unites us all. Whether you are a lifelong fan or just discovering Judas Priest, your passion fuels our fire. The metal community is a vibrant, diverse, and powerful force, and I am honored to be part of it. We share a bond that transcends language, culture, and borders—a bond forged through the power of music and the shared love for this incredible band.
Looking ahead, I am excited for what the future holds. We will continue to create, perform, and push boundaries, always respecting the roots that made Judas Priest what it is today. We will honor our history while embracing new ideas and sounds, ensuring that Judas Priest remains relevant and inspiring for generations to come.
To Rob, thank you for your leadership, your friendship, and your unwavering spirit. Your voice is the soul of Judas Priest, and I am grateful every day to learn from your example. To the fans, thank you for your loyalty and for believing in us. Your energy fuels our passion, and we carry your spirit into every stage we step onto. To everyone behind the scenes, thank you for your dedication and hard work—your contributions are what make the magic happen.
Together, we are part of an unbreakable family, united by the power of metal and the shared love for Judas Priest. No matter where life takes us, this community will always hold a special place in my heart. I promise to continue giving my best, to honor our legacy, and to keep the spirit of Judas Priest alive and thriving.
