K.K. Downing Celebrates Judas Priest’s Legacy with Updated “Never Satisfied”
Introduction to the Tribute
K.K. Downing, a vital force behind the iconic heavy metal band Judas Priest, has recently unveiled a refreshed rendition of “Never Satisfied” to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the band’s inaugural album, Rocka Rolla. This release not only pays homage to the band’s roots but also showcases Downing’s enduring passion for the music he helped create.
The Origins of “Never Satisfied”
Originally featured on the 1974 album Rocka Rolla, “Never Satisfied” served as the B-side to the title track. The song was co-penned by Downing and Al Atkins, who was the band’s original lead vocalist before the legendary Rob Halford took over. This track holds a special place in the band’s history, representing their early foray into the heavy metal sound that would later define their career.
K.K. Downing’s Reflections on the New Version
In discussing the newly recorded version of “Never Satisfied,” K.K. Downing expressed his excitement about revisiting the composition. He stated:
“It’s a real treat and great fun to revisit and record this version of ‘Never Satisfied,’ a song I co-wrote over 50 years ago! I really didn’t overthink it—I just plugged in my guitar drifting back to a time when Metal was an embryo of an idea. I knew the song already sounded great with Rob Halford, but I was especially keen on hearing the mighty Ripper Owens on the vocals.”
Celebrating the 50th Anniversary
Downing highlighted the positive reception surrounding the 50th anniversary of Rocka Rolla, indicating that the tribute was a personal way to contribute to the celebrations. He expressed hope that “Never Satisfied” would resonate with fans at future K.K.’s Priest performances, potentially becoming a new favorite among audiences.
Availability of the New Release
The updated version of “Never Satisfied” is currently available for streaming and download through Exciter Records, in collaboration with Hellfire Thunderbolt Records, the label owned by K.K. Downing. Fans can find the track on various platforms:
- YouTube: tinyurl.com/yc6hkcan
- Apple Music: tinyurl.com/vnczxffa
- Amazon: tinyurl.com/ykpwmufp
Future Projects
In a significant move, Exciter Records, which is owned by publisher Reach Music, has acquired the masters and publishing rights for both Rocka Rolla and Sad Wings of Destiny by Judas Priest. Fans can look forward to a 50th anniversary release of Sad Wings of Destiny, slated for production in 2026, further celebrating the band’s rich history.
Conclusion
K.K. Downing’s updated version of “Never Satisfied” serves as a poignant reminder of Judas Priest’s legacy and the band’s formative years in the heavy metal genre. As the music world reflects on the impact of Rocka Rolla, Downing’s tribute not only honors the past but also paves the way for future generations of metal enthusiasts. With exciting projects on the horizon, the story of Judas Priest continues to evolve.
FAQs
What is “Never Satisfied”?
“Never Satisfied” is a song co-written by K.K. Downing and Al Atkins, originally featured on Judas Priest’s debut album, Rocka Rolla, released in 1974.
Who is K.K. Downing?
K.K. Downing is a founding member of Judas Priest, known for his significant contributions to the band’s music as a guitarist and songwriter. He is also the leader of the band K.K.’s Priest.
Why was the updated version released?
The updated version of “Never Satisfied” was released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Rocka Rolla, celebrating the band’s legacy and allowing fans to experience a fresh take on a classic song.
Where can I listen to the new version of “Never Satisfied”?
The new version is available for streaming and download on platforms like YouTube, Apple Music, and Amazon.
What future releases can fans expect?
Fans can look forward to a 50th anniversary release of Sad Wings of Destiny in 2026, as part of a continued celebration of Judas Priest’s impact on music.
