Rob Halford Explains Why Judas Priest Are Missing Black Sabbath’s Farewell Megaconcert

Rob Halford Explains Why Judas Priest Are Missing Black Sabbath’s Farewell Megaconcert

 

 

Rob Halford Explains Why Judas Priest Is Missing Black Sabbath’s Farewell “Back To The Beginning” Concert

*May 8, 2025 – Birmingham, UK & Hannover, Germany*

Judas Priest’s legendary frontman **Rob Halford** has shared heartfelt reasons behind the band’s planned absence from Black Sabbath’s monumental final concert at Villa Park, Birmingham—dubbed **“Back To The Beginning”**—scheduled for July 5, 2025. His explanation underscores a clash of heavy-metal titans and the logistical nightmare that followed.

### 🎤 A Scheduling Collision with Scorpions Anniversary Event

Halford explains that Judas Priest had already committed to perform at a major tribute show: **Scorpions’ 60th‑anniversary concert in Hannover, Germany**, taking place on the exact same evening as Sabbath’s farewell ([blabbermouth.net][1]). He said:

> **“I had no idea \[the Sabbath show] was happening!”** ([metalheadzone.com][2])

Organizers in Germany, including renowned promoter Ossy Hoppe, asked Priest to join the festivities. Halford added:

> *“He came in to see me… says, ‘Would you consider doing something really special and important? I’m putting on the Scorpions for their 60th anniversary…’ And I just thought, ‘Done! We’ve got no plans.’”* ([mxdwn.co.uk][3

### ✈️ A Noble Effort That Wasn’t Enough

Shortly after Priest signed on for Hannover, **Sharon Osbourne** reached out, hoping Halford could appear at Sabbath’s farewell as a surprise guest. She even offered to charter a private jet for transfer from Germany to the UK ([blabbermouth.net][1]). Inspired by Phil Collins’s transatlantic switch during Live Aid, Halford seriously considered pulling it off:

> *“My mind went to Phil Collins when he did Live Aid… But even with a private plane, there’s a word called ‘technical’… or the weather… I was absolutely gutted.”* ([rtbf.be][4], [blabbermouth.net][1])

### 🤘 Representing Judas Priest’s Spirit

Though Halford himself won’t be in attendance, **founding guitarist K.K. Downing**—who left the band in 2011—will be present to represent Judas Priest at Villa Park ([blabbermouth.net][1]). Regarding Priest’s absence, Halford stated:

> *“All my mates are going to be there… It’s a wonderful and epic moment for Sabbath and heavy metal — it re‑emphasises that Birmingham is where metal came from.”* ([blabbermouth.net][1])

### 🏆 The Weight of Legacy and Loyalty

Rob Halford’s remorse is palpable. Known for stepping in on short notice during Black Sabbath’s key run-ins in the ‘90s and 2004, he shared:

> *“I was absolutely gutted.”* ([musicminds.com][5], [metalheadzone.com][2])

Heavy-metal fans took note on Reddit:

> **“Eh they probably agreed to do the Scorpions show before they knew about the Black Sabbath show… Also, at least KK will be there.”** ([reddit.com][6])

Though Judas Priest will still rock earlier gigs—especially the Scorpions celebration—they’ll miss what’s shaping up to be a historic, emotional night as Sabbath and Ozzy play their final show together.

In an era defined by bold collaborations and heavyweight lineups, Halford’s absence reminds us that even legends must navigate responsibilities and timing. Despite logistical challenges, his heartfelt regret and sacrifice highlight the deep camaraderie that exists within the metal community—a final tribute from one icon to another.

**Judas Priest won’t be on stage at Villa Park—but their spirit, legacy, and respect for Black Sabbath are sure to resonate from the crowd that night.**

Want a rundown of the full lineup for Sabbath’s farewell or insight into Priest’s upcoming tour dates? Just say the word!