KK's Priest

K. K. Downing is one of the most influential guitarists in heavy metal history. Born on October 27, 1951, in West Bromwich, England, he was a founding member of Judas Priest and part of the band from 1969 to 2011, helping define the sound and visual identity of the genre. Alongside Glenn Tipton, Downing popularized the concept of harmonized twin lead guitars, creating riffs, solos, and melodies that became a reference for generations of musicians.

After leaving Judas Priest in 2011, K.K.'s return seemed uncertain. Nearly ten years after his departure, the guitarist returned to action, proving he was far from giving up writing metal classics or hanging up his iconic Flying V guitars. The musician participated in internationally celebrated comeback performances, including joining his former Judas Priest bandmates during the band's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2022—events that paved the way for the formation of KK's Priest.

Their debut album, Sermons of the Sinner, was released in October 2021, highlighted by the singles "Hellfire Thunderbolt," "Sermons of the Sinner," "Brothers of the Road," and "Raise Your Fists." In 2023, KK's Priest released their second album, The Sinner Rides Again, featuring "One More Shot at Glory," "Reap the Whirlwind," and "Strike of the Viper" as singles.

With a setlist blending tracks from Sermons of the Sinner (2021) and The Sinner Rides Again (2023), Tim "Ripper" Owens (lead vocals), K.K. Downing and A.J. Mills (guitars), Tony Newton (bass), and Sean Elg (drums) are ready for Bangers Open Air 2027. Oh, and get ready for Judas Priest classics like "The Ripper," "Night Crawler," "Hell Patrol," "Breaking the Law," and "Sinner," as well as "Burn in Hell" from the Ripper Owens era, and the unmistakable Fleetwood Mac cover, "The Green Manalishi (With the Two Prong Crown)."