Judas Priest are an English heavy metal band formed in 1969 in Birmingham. Originally formed by guitarist K. K. Downing and bassist Ian Hill, Judas Priest's core line-up consists of Downing, Hill, vocalist Rob Halford and guitarist Glenn Tipton. They have been cited as an influence on many heavy metal musicians and bands. Their popularity and status as one of the definitive heavy metal bands has earned them the nickname "Metal Gods", from their song of the same name. They have sold over 35 million albums worldwide.

Judas Priest are one of the pioneers of the heavy metal genre and were forerunners of the ‘New Wave of British Heavy Metal’ movement, laying the groundwork for the speed and thrash metal of the 80s and 90s back in the late 70s. The band was formed in 1967 by guitarist Kenneth “K. K.” Downing, bassist Ian Hill and original singer Alan Atkins. A second guitarist, Glenn Tipton , was also added to the lineup as compensation for their record company’s (Gull Records) suggestion to add a horn