Richie Faulkner Reflects on Joining Judas Priest

Replacing a Legend: The Challenge of Joining Judas Priest

In a recent interview with Andrés Durán of El Expreso Del Rock, Richie Faulkner, the guitarist for Judas Priest, shared his thoughts on stepping into the shoes of legendary guitarist Kenneth “K.K.” Downing in 2011. Faulkner emphasized the unique legacy Downing left behind, stating, “I think you can never replace someone like K.K. Downing. He was in the band for 40 years, and he helped create what they created together.” His acknowledgment of the challenge highlights his respect for the band’s history while also recognizing the need for growth and innovation.

Creating a Unique Sound

Faulkner believes in honoring the past while forging a new path. “When you get the opportunity for that position, you have to respect what went before, but I think you also have to try and create your own sound moving forward with the band,” he explained. This balance between reverence and innovation is a cornerstone of his approach to playing with Judas Priest.

Influences and Legacy

Faulkner draws inspiration from various rock legends, including Michael Schenker of UFO and Ritchie Blackmore from Deep Purple. He conveyed that while fans may have their preferences for guitarists, he is grateful to contribute to the band’s legacy. “Some people love K.K., some people love us all, and some people love it all, and it’s great,” he said, showcasing his appreciation for the diverse fanbase.

Judas Priest’s Continued Relevance

During the interview, Faulkner addressed Rob Halford’s remarks about him “saving” the band nearly a decade ago. He reflected on the significance of Judas Priest’s ongoing presence in the music scene, stating, “After 50 years, the band is putting out new music and we’re still touring… We got nominated for a Grammy in the metal category for new music.” This nomination, he believes, sends a strong message about the relevance of heavy metal today.

A Team Effort

Faulkner credits the entire Judas Priest team, including management and crew, for the band’s ongoing success. “We’re a team — not just the band, but management and the label and our crew; the crew’s fantastic,” he noted. He recognizes that every member contributes to the band’s legacy, and their collective effort is vital for keeping metal alive.

Transitioning into the Band

Faulkner’s journey to joining Judas Priest began in a cover band, where he became intimately familiar with the band’s catalog. “You had to know Judas Priest and Deep Purple and Iron Maiden if you wanted to play regularly,” he shared. When he got the call from management, he felt uniquely positioned to join the band, as he wasn’t a complete newcomer but still had fresh energy.

Seamless Integration

Reflecting on his transition into Judas Priest, Faulkner explained that the enormity of the band helped him adapt quickly. “You realize how much this means to so many people around the world. I think I was ready for the challenge,” he remarked, understanding the weight of being a guitarist in such a storied band.

The Legacy of K.K. Downing

Richie Faulkner joined the band after K.K. Downing’s departure, which was marked by conflict and management issues. Downing expressed mixed feelings about Faulkner’s arrival, once saying he felt like he was being “cloned.” Despite initial concerns, Downing acknowledged Faulkner’s talent and right to bring his own style to the stage.

Embracing Influence, Not Imitation

In response to criticisms regarding his resemblance to Downing, Faulkner expressed that his look and style are genuine reflections of his influences. “You’ve gotta be real; you’ve gotta be who you are,” he asserted, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in his performance.

Conclusion

Richie Faulkner’s journey with Judas Priest exemplifies the balance between honoring a legendary past and embracing the future of heavy metal. His dedication to the band’s legacy while forging his own path showcases the spirit of innovation that is vital for the genre’s evolution. As Judas Priest continues to tour and create new music, Faulkner remains a key player in the band’s ongoing story, proving that heavy metal remains a relevant and powerful force in music.

FAQs

Who is Richie Faulkner?

Richie Faulkner is the guitarist for the iconic heavy metal band Judas Priest, having joined the band in 2011 as the replacement for K.K. Downing.

What did Richie Faulkner say about K.K. Downing?

Faulkner stated that it’s impossible to replace K.K. Downing, emphasizing the importance of respecting his legacy while also creating new sounds for the band.

How has Judas Priest remained relevant in the music industry?

Faulkner highlighted the band’s ability to produce new music and tour globally, as well as receiving Grammy nominations, as evidence of heavy metal’s enduring relevance.

What is Faulkner’s approach to his role in the band?

Faulkner believes in being part of a team, valuing the contributions of all members, and focusing on delivering high-energy performances that honor the band’s legacy.