Ian Hill, bassist and founding member of Judas Priest , stated in an interview with the Metal Oda his perception of how people have been trying to sabotage and kill heavy metal.
Speaking about the band's newest album Invincible Shield (2024), the bassist commented (transcribed via Blabbermouth.net ):
“A lot of things have been thrown against us over the years. I mean, people have been trying to kill heavy metal for about 35, 40 years, so it’s always been a kind of fight against the system, if you know what I mean.”
However, despite the difficulties throughout the decades, Hill speaks of perseverance: “But we always managed to survive and overcome it. And then we had lawsuits with people trying to take a lot of money from us for no reason at all. Then the personal struggles of the band members.”
Watch the interview at the link below:
"Patience and persistence"
When asked what advice he would give himself if he could go back to the beginning of his career in Judas Priest, Ian says: “Back then, you hoped to make it and succeed in the world and become popular. You never believe it until it happens, but keep going, and it’s really just patience and persistence more than anything. Just keep going.”
And he sends a message to those who are starting out: “If you have something to offer, this is what I would say to those who are starting today, although it is a little more difficult to progress today. Although it wasn't easy, today it's a little more difficult because the system has completely changed since we started the process. Yes, it's about persistence, perseverance, and self-confidence.”
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