Heavy metal band Judas Priest suspends their tour as their bandmate recovers from a medical problem.
The group released a statement on social media on Monday sending their love to guitarist Richie Faulkner who is currently recovering in hospital.
“It is with deep regret that we have to postpone the remainder of our tour to the United States – Richie has serious heart health issues that have led him to the hospital where he is being treated – in the meantime we are all sending from love to our Falcon to wish him a speedy recovery … “the statement read.
The English heavy metal band recently performed at the Louder Than Life Festival in Louisville. Upcoming stops on their current tour included shows in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.
“As soon as we hear from his doctors on when we can reschedule the dates, we will of course announce them – the tickets will be valid,” the statement added.
Judas Priest was on tour for his 50th birthday, after the band’s original 2020 tour dates were canceled due to the pandemic.
Formed in the 1970s, the band’s first international tour was in 1974. Since then, the band has been a staple on the road.
“It’s good to be all together on stage again,” bassist Ian Hill told the Louisville Courier-Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network, ahead of the US portion of the tour. “During COVID we were stranded some in the US and some of us were in England… I think more than anyone my wife wanted to get rid of me before I started moving. She really wanted me to come back. on tour. ”
Fans and fellow musicians sent messages of a speedy recovery to Faulkner.
“God accelerate Richie, you are the best!” Wrote Eric Peterson of the metal band Testament.
Iron Maidens guitarist Courtney Cox wrote: “Get well soon. ”
“I wish you much strength for your recovery (brother)… we love you and your family very much,” wrote Korn drummer Ray Luzier.