Davey Rimmer Replaces Retiring Ian Hill in Judas Priest

Judas Priest contacted Uriah Heep and Elegant Weapons bassist Davey Rimmer to step in if needed. The band confirmed Ian Hill's retirement and Rimmer's arrival, describing Hill as the backbone of the band. The group welcomed Rimmer and offered well wishes to Hill, who stated that he wants to spend more time with his family after dedicating long years to the group. With no concert schedule until the summer of 2027, Judas Priest has time to proceed with Rimmer on bass.

Ian Hill and guitarist K.K. Downing joined Judas Priest in 1970 following the band's formation by Al Atkins. Vocalist Rob Halford joined in 1973, and guitarist Glenn Tipton entered the lineup in 1974. Following Downing's departure in 2011, Hill remained the only continuous member from the earliest lineup. Hill played on all studio recordings from the 1974 debut album Rocka Rolla to 2024's Invincible Shield and the upcoming new album. Judas Priest was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.