Ian Hill Retires From Judas Priest After 57 Years; Davey Rimmer Takes Over
The bassist cites advanced arthritis and a shoulder tendon injury, while confirming that he recorded parts for the band’s next album before stepping away.
Oct 12, 2026
Credit: Getty Images (via source)
Ian Hill has retired from Judas Priest after 57 years with the band. The bassist said advanced arthritis in his shoulders, right hand and knees had begun to affect his ability to perform, and that a snapped tendon in his left shoulder forced him to miss the London show on the band’s recent European tour.
Hill joined Judas Priest in 1970 and played on all 19 of the band’s studio albums. He also recorded bass parts for the group’s forthcoming 20th album before deciding to step down. Davey Rimmer, known for Uriah Heep and Elegant Weapons, has been named as his replacement.
Credit: YouTube
Why it matters
Hill was the longest-serving member of Judas Priest and the only musician to appear on every studio album, making this a historic lineup change for one of heavy metal’s defining bands.
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Sources
- https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/bassists/judas-priest-ian-hill-retires(primary)
- https://www.musicradar.com/artists/for-some-years-now-ive-been-struggling-with-the-onset-of-the-evil-arthritis-which-is-now-in-an-advanced-state-in-my-left-shoulder-and-right-hand-my-right-shoulder-and-both-knees-judas-priest-bassist-ian-hill-retires-with-immediate-effect