by Judas Priest guitarist Richie Faulkner recently discussed the importance of the band continuing to create new music. He shared his perspective in an interview with 96.9 BOB FM.
Faulkner emphasized the band’s commitment to nurturing their creative energy and pushing musical boundaries. He also addressed how new albums serve both longtime fans and younger audiences discovering the band for the first time.
“I think it’s important for a band that has a creative energy like that to nurture that creative energy and try and push forward,” Faulkner said. “And I think they always have tried to do that. They’ve always pushed into new areas. They were always pioneers.”
The guitarist highlighted how different fans connect with various eras of the band’s catalog. He noted the diverse entry points for new listeners.
“There’s a certain time when everyone comes into Priest’s catalog — it might be ‘Painkiller’, it might be ‘Stained Class’ or it might be ‘Killing Machine’ — but there’s a younger audience out there now as well,” he continued. “So I think they’re important right across the board. Our last album was as important as other ones for those people that are seeing Priest for the first time.”
Faulkner also spoke about the band’s internal drive for continuous improvement and creative expression.
“And there’s always that creative itch that we have to do better, as I said before — a better record, better production, better songwriting, better solo, better performance, whatever it is,” he explained. “I think we’re all driven in Priest to do that. So it’s just a natural thing. Whether it’s important or not to everyone, I don’t know — some people might see that differently — but I think it’s important for us in Priest as creatives to nurture that and get that creative stuff out, if you know what I mean.”
Faulkner’s perspective on creative evolution reflects his significant impact on the band since joining over a decade ago.
Guitar Interactive Magazine reported that Faulkner has become a key force in revitalizing Judas Priest’s sound since joining in 2011. His addition marked a significant chapter in the band’s history. Many fans and critics noted the renewed energy he brought to their music.
The guitarist’s journey into Judas Priest was notably unconventional. Various interviews revealed that his audition process was unexpectedly laid-back. It tested not just his technical playing ability but also his capacity to fit with the group’s established dynamic and chemistry.
Faulkner’s musical influences have played a crucial role in shaping his contributions to the band. Goldmine Magazine noted that he draws inspiration from guitar legends like Michael Schenker and Randy Rhoads. He blends these influences while bringing a distinctly modern energy to Judas Priest’s classic sound.
His integration into the band has been so successful that many longtime followers believe Judas Priest has reached new creative heights. The combination of his technical prowess and fresh perspective has allowed the band to maintain their pioneering spirit while continuing to attract new generations of metal fans.
