Ian Hill Says He And Rob Halford Still Act Like 12-Year-Olds

Ian Hill recently spoke on Riff X’s ‘Metal XS’ about young audience’s interest in Judas Priest’s music. The 72-year-old explained how he and his bandmates connected with them despite the age gap:

“Personally, I just take things as they come. It’s great to see young faces there. But none of us are acting our age, really. I mean, up here [in my head], I’m still 12 years old. So is Rob [Halford]. You never get old. It is something that keeps you young, mentally young.”

“So, it is something that, personally, I don’t consider that much. If somebody points it out to you, [there’s] three generations [of fans out there]. I’m old enough to be that person’s grandfather.’ But no. We’re stuck in the age that’s necessary for us to continue, mentally. [Laughs] Physically is another question altogether.”

About Their New Music

Ian Hill is Judas Priest’s only remaining original member. The band was formed in 1969. Rob Halford joined the band in 1973, and Glenn Tipton in 1974. Ritchie Faulkner replaced K.K. Downing in 2011.

The current lineup released a new album on March 8. ‘Invincible Shield’ came out via Sony Music and is reportedly different from the band’s previous record, ‘Firepower.’ Hill said:

“This one is a lot busier. The songs are more complicated than they have been.”

He also mentioned Judas Priest’s approach to making new music:

“Your latest album is always your favorite because you’ve just spent months putting it together. But with each album that we’ve done, ever since day one, we’ve always tried to move forward and keep learning and keep current. Anything modern that comes along — a recording technique or some kind of gadget or an effect — we’ll give it a go.”

You can watch the full interview below.