In a recent interview with Ultimate-Guitar, singer Tim “Ripper” Owens reflected on his 1996–2003 tenure in JUDAS PRIEST, which resulted in 1997’s “Jugulator” and 2001’s “Demolition.”
When asked how does he feel about his era in PRIEST and if he thinks it deserves more attention, he responded:
“I love it. I still tour and I’m able to play songs from ‘Jugulator’ and ‘Demolition.’ Yeah, I think it definitely deserves more. I mean, they don’t do anything. [Laughs]
“It’s kind of amazing that they just totally erased it that they won’t play… I mean ‘Burn in Hell’ [off ‘Jugulator’], the crowd would like to hear ‘Burn in Hell.’
“They don’t have to give me a tribute or anything, but it would be nice to play a song from… You know, that was a pretty big thing, I did two studio records, two live records, and a DVD, starting from ’96 to 2004.
“So it’s kind of crazy that it’s just been erased and they won’t even play a song from it live, because it is JUDAS PRIEST.”
Speaking how was it like working with K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton, Tim said:
“Oh, it was great. I think some of the funnest times in my life with a band was with them. They treated me great, really friendly, we had such a great relationship. I have nothing but great things to say about them.
“The thing I miss about JUDAS PRIEST is I just miss hanging out with them. We just had a lot of fun together so I definitely miss that.”
Asked if he’s still in a good relationship with a band, singer responded:
“Yeah, we still get along, we still talk – absolutely. I mean, we don’t talk that much anymore. K.K. and I probably have talked the most and he’s supported me and he came to my concerts when I played in England.
“I’m even friends with Rob [Halford], that’s the best part. And we talk and when we see each other we have a great conversation. A lot of respect.”
