Alors que Firepower, le nouvel album de Judas Priest s'apprête à sortir, le groupe britannique a annoncé que Glenn Tipton (guitare) était atteint de la maladie de Parkinson. Diagnostiquée depuis près de dix ans, cette maladie a évolué à un tel point que Glenn ne prendra pas part à la tournée en soutien de Firepower.
Le groupe a également précisé que Glenn parvient toujours à jouer les titres de Priest les moins difficiles, mais qu'en raison de la progression de la maladie, il a préféré céder sa place sur cette tournée à Andy Sneap, qui a co-produit le prochain album.
Rappelons que cette tournée fera une étape à Clisson, lors de l'édition 2018 du Hellfest.
Le guitariste n'exclut pas de revenir prochainement sur scène. Voici le communiqué publié par le groupe sur sa page Facebook :
"Ten years ago Glenn was diagnosed to have the onset of the early stages of Parkinson’s - from then until recently Glenn has lived his life as the great heavy metal guitar player he has always been, maintaining by his own definition a standard of quality and performance that is incredibly important.
Right now Glenn is able to play and perform some of the Priest songs that are less challenging but due to the nature of Parkinson's progression he wants to let you all know that he won't be be touring as such -
True to the metal spirit of 'the show must go on' Glenn has requested Andy Sneap to fly the flag on stage for him
“I want everyone to know that it’s vital that the Judas Priest tour go ahead and that I am not leaving the band - it’s simply that my role has changed.
I don’t rule out the chance to go on stage as and when I feel able to blast out some Priest! So at some point in the not too distant future I’m really looking forward to seeing all of our wonderful metal maniacs once again”
Rob, Richie, Ian and Scott have this to say:
“We have been privileged to witness Glenn’s determination and steadfast commitment over the years, showing his passion and self belief through the writing, recording and performing sessions with Priest - he is a true metal hero!
We are not surprised by Glenn’s insistence that we complete the Firepower tour and thank Andy for joining us to make Glenn’s wishes become real -
As Glenn has said we also can’t wait to have him with us at any time any place on the road.....
We love you Glenn!”"
Photo promotionnelle : DR
