Judas Priest’s 2022 “50 Heavy Metal Years” tour marked a monumental celebration of the band’s five-decade legacy in heavy metal. The tour featured classic hits, elaborate stage designs, and special appearances by founding guitarist Glenn Tipton, who had retired from full-time touring due to Parkinson’s disease.
The setlist was a dynamic mix of fan favorites, including “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” “Breaking the Law,” and “Hell Bent for Leather.” The band also honored their roots with a massive inflatable bull, a nod to their Birmingham origins, and a visual tribute to the industrial heritage that influenced their music .
During select shows, Tipton joined the band on stage for the final encore, performing “Metal Gods,” “Breaking the Law,” and “Living After Midnight,” much to the delight of fans .
The tour coincided with Judas Priest’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022, further cementing their status as metal legends .
In addition to the tour, the band released an official history book, “50 Heavy Metal Years,” available in multiple editions, including a special version to benefit The Glenn Tipton Parkinson’s Foundation .
The 2022 tour was a fitting tribute to Judas Priest’s enduring influence and a testament to their commitment to the heavy metal genre.
