Remember when Ian Hill said he wants Iron Maiden and Judas Priest to tour together? Well, now Rob Halford has doubled down on the idea, believing it's something both bands would be interested in pursuing.

The Metal God spoke with Heavy Consequence about his recently released solo Christmas album, Celestial, and was asked about Hill's comments on a joint tour between the British legends. "I think both bands would look to do that," he said. "It’s all about the timing of doing such a thing. We’re good friends."

As you may know, it wouldn't be the first time the British groups would hit the road together. Priest welcomed Maiden on successive tours, first promoting British Steel in 1980 then Point of Entry in 1981. Both treks were during Maiden's Paul Di'Anno era.

During this time, Judas Priest were breaking significant ground in America on the back of massive radio singles off their sixth and seventh records, while Iron Maiden were on the upswing as relative newcomers as metal's popularity was growing. A young and spirited Maiden taunted Priest a bit in the press, sparking what many viewed as a somewhat bitter rivalry.

Commenting on this idea of a rivalry between the two groups today, Halford likened it to sports. "When we talk about rivalry, healthy rivalry, it’s like the [NFL's] Arizona Cardinals and the Raiders or the [NBA's] Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors. It’s that kind of rivalry, a good rivalry. It’s a fun rivalry," he admitted.

There's a mutual level of respect between the bands as the singer continued, "But I think both bands have admired each other throughout the metal years, and it would be a spectacular event — Priest and Iron Maiden together."

For Halford, this would represent the actualization of a personal dream tour, which is no longer possible. "My dream had always been to have ‘The Big 4 of the UK," revealed the frontman. "I’d always dreamed of Black Sabbath and Motorhead and Priest and Maiden as ‘The Big 4’ doing something in the UK."

"Sadly, two-fourths of that has gone," lamented Halford, referring to the passing of Lemmy Kilmister and the retirement of Black Sabbath, "but the music lives forever. That’s the main thing."

In closing, the singer pleaded, "Please, before we all die!"

Whether they embark on a tour with Iron Maiden or not, next year is a big one for Judas Priest. They'll be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the band, who changed their name from Freight to Judas Priest in 1970 and Halford recollected it all and more in his forthcoming memoir, Confess, which will be out Oct. 20, 2020.

Perhaps it will also be the year the band finally receives their long overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

See Iron Maiden + Judas Priest in the Best Metal Song of Each Year Since 1970

 

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