Judas Priest is an English heavy metal band formed in Birmingham in 1969, recognized as one of the genre’s most influential acts. As pioneers of the new wave of British heavy metal, they have sold over 50 million albums worldwide and helped shape subgenres like speed, thrash, and power metal. Their signature sound, marked by Rob Halford’s powerful vocals and the twin-guitar attack of Glenn Tipton and K. K. Downing, set a template for heavy metal. The band's breakthrough came with the 1980 album British Steel, which brought them mainstream success and defined the heavy metal sound and image, especially with their iconic leather-and-spikes look. Core members have included Ian Hill, Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, and K. K. Downing, with several drummers over the years and Richie Faulkner joining in 2011. Despite lineup changes and challenges, Judas Priest remains active, with Hill and Tipton appearing on every album. The band has won a Grammy Award, toured globally, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Their music and style continue to influence metal worldwide.