KK Downing Reveals Reason For Priest Departure
It seems a conflict was the reason for him leaving Judas Priest
In a statement released following his shock departure from the band last week, Downing moved to end speculation that there were health concerns behind his decision. Instead, it seems that there was simply a breakdown in the relationship with some of his bandmates.
Here's the statement:
"Dear friends,
"It is with much regret that I will not be with you this summer.
"Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your concerns about my health. Please rest assured that I am OK.
"There has been an ongoing breakdown in working relationship between myself, elements of the band, and the band's management for some time. Therefore I have decided to step down rather than to tour with negative sentiments as I feel that this would be a deception to you, our cherished fans. However, I would urge you to please support the Priest as I have no doubt that it will be a show not to be missed.
"All my love and respect."
Former Voodoo Six guitarist Richie Faulkner has already been announced as the replacement for Downing on the band's tour.
Priest headline the High Voltage Festival in July and will be out on the road in the UK prior to that along with Queensryche. They are also expected to release a new studio album in 2012.
Here are the dates:
15/07/2011 - Newport Centre
16/07/2011 - O2 Apollo Manchester
17/07/2011 - Doncaster Dome
19/07/2011 - SECC, Glasgow
20/07/2011 - Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
21/07/2011 - Wolverhampton Civic Hall
23/07/2011 - High Voltage, London
24/07/2011 - Bournemouth International Centre