Judas Priest’s 2022 “50 Heavy Metal Years” tour was a monumental celebration of the band’s five-decade legacy in heavy metal. The North American leg of the tour featured Queensrÿche as the opening act and was fueled by the success of their 2018 album *Firepower*. The setlist was a dynamic mix of classic hits and fan favorites, including “Electric Eye,” “Hell Bent for Leather,” and “Living After Midnight” .
A standout moment of the tour was the surprise appearance of founding guitarist Glenn Tipton, who had been limited to touring due to his battle with Parkinson’s disease. His return to the stage for the encore was met with thunderous applause, and he joined the band for performances of “Electric Eye,” “Hell Bent for Leather,” and “Breaking the Law” .
The tour also marked a significant milestone for the band, as they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022. The induction ceremony honored current members Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill, and Scott Travis, along with former members K.K. Downing, Les Binks, and the late Dave Holland .
To commemorate their 50th anniversary, Judas Priest released a limited edition 42-disc box set titled *Reflections: 50 Heavy Metal Years of Music*. This comprehensive collection includes all their studio albums, live recordings, and previously unreleased material, restored and mixed by Tom Allom and mastered at Abbey Road Studios. The set also features signed photographs, memorabilia, and replica tour items, encapsulating the band’s enduring influence in the heavy metal genre .
The 2022 tour was a testament to Judas Priest’s enduring legacy and their unwavering commitment to heavy metal, delivering an unforgettable experience for fans old and new.
