Jimmy Kay From Canada’s The Metal Voice spoke to Ex Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing about his upcoming special guest performance with Ross the Boss Band at Bloodstock Aug 11 2019, starting a band with Ripper, the pros and cons of recording Defenders of the Faith.
Watch the interview here
When asked about his upcoming Bloodstock special guest performance with Ross the Boss band
“The idea of me being at Bloodstock was bounced around and somebody said if you’re gonna be at Bloodstock would you fancy playing a few songs. I said I’m not a solo artist. Then it was suggested to be a special guest with the Ross the Boss band, since they are a 4 piece and having another guitar up there would be ideal opportunity. ”
When asked if he is nervous jumping on stage after a ten year absence
“Absolutely not! It’s just like riding a bike, it’s not like I haven’t been playing the guitar since quitting Judas Priest. Once you have learned those chops and toured extensively over the decades its very easy to back to it. I am always up for a challenge. We will go up there and play Judas Priest songs but I am also open to any other suggestions. So I told Ross let’s just meet up and let’s set up a jam the day before and let’s see what we feel like doing. Maybe we can mix it up and bring something different to the table. The organizers also have extended the amount of time we can play which is great.”
When asked if he had any other opportunities to perform with another band on stage
“To be honest I was expecting at some point a willingness and an opportunity to step back into Judas Priest. You know how it is, things said in haste, a band is a relationship, like every husband and wife, every brother and sister. But I thought at one point it would be inevitable and I would re-enter Judas Priest and carry on where we left off but it’s proved not to be the case. So I have to accept that and just move forward. So I am looking forward to being a guest at Bloodstock immensely and I thank Ross and the band. One thing I like about Ross and the band they are full on metal, they are dedicated and it’s good to be onstage with people that not only think like me but who have played like me through the decades.”
Would he ever consider working with Tim Ripper Owens
“I love Ripper to death, not only is he a great guy, he is a great performer and great vocalist. He was not only instrumental but essential for holding Priest together through now that we call the Ripper years. Its just a question of picking the other musicians really. If I was to do anything I would have Ripper. “
