An Open Letter: Time Has Come — Judas Priest Announces 2026 Farewell Tour: ‘One Last Ride’ Marks the End of a Rock Legend’s Era – Dates and Cities Revealed…. watch hear
It is with a mixture of pride, nostalgia, and a touch of bittersweet emotion that we share this pivotal announcement: Judas Priest, one of the most iconic and influential bands in the history of heavy metal, is embarking on its **final worldwide tour—“One Last Ride”—set to take place in 2026**. After over five decades of relentless touring, groundbreaking albums, and legendary performances that have defined generations, Judas Priest’s upcoming farewell tour marks the end of an era—yet also cements their legacy for eternity.
This open letter aims to honor the monumental journey of Judas Priest, celebrate their indelible contribution to music, and prepare fans for what promises to be an unforgettable farewell experience.
Since forming in Birmingham, England, in 1969, Judas Priest has been the epitome of metal’s rebellious spirit, innovation, and resilience. Their twin-guitar attack, soaring vocals, and anthems like *“Breaking the Law,”* *“Living After Midnight,”* and *“Painkiller”* have become the soundtrack of countless lives. Their influence on the genre is immeasurable; they are the architects of the sound and aesthetic that define heavy metal.
Over the years, Judas Priest has sold millions of records worldwide, earned numerous awards—including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award—and inspired legions of musicians and fans alike. Their stage presence, commanding Rob Halford’s legendary voice, and relentless energy have created moments that are etched in rock history.
Now, after more than 50 years of pioneering music, the band has made the difficult decision to retire from touring—an act that signifies both a farewell and a celebration of their monumental career.
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### Announcing “One Last Ride”: The Farewell Tour of Legends
In a heartfelt statement, Judas Priest announced their 2026 farewell tour, **“One Last Ride,”** a final chance for fans worldwide to witness the legendary band live. The tour will span multiple continents, giving fans across the globe an opportunity to pay tribute to the band that shaped their lives.
The band’s statement read: *“It’s been an incredible journey—one filled with unforgettable memories, legendary shows, and a bond with fans that transcends words. We want to thank everyone who has supported us over the decades. Now, it’s time for one last ride—an epic farewell tour to celebrate our fans and our legacy. We promise to deliver the best shows possible and make it a tour to remember.”*
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### Dates and Cities: A Global Celebration
Fans are eager to know the specifics, and the band has revealed the initial schedule for the “One Last Ride” tour. While additional dates and cities will be announced later, the current lineup includes:
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These dates mark a historic journey across Europe, North America, and Asia, uniting fans in a shared celebration of Judas Priest’s legacy. The band promises to deliver electrifying performances, complete with classic hits and rare surprises, to honor their fans’ loyalty and passion.
### Reflecting on a Legendary Legacy
This farewell tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a tribute to the band’s impact on music and culture. Judas Priest has always stood for rebellion, individuality, and the power of heavy metal to unite people across borders and backgrounds. Their influence has paved the way for countless bands and has inspired generations.
Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill, and Scott Travis have expressed their gratitude and excitement. Halford shared, *“It’s been an honor to be part of something so special. We want to give our fans the farewell they deserve—one last ride full of energy, passion, and memories that will last a lifetime.”*
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### A Message to Fans: Cherish the Moments
To all Judas Priest fans, this farewell tour is a moment to cherish. It’s a chance to celebrate a band that has provided the soundtrack to your life, inspired your spirit, and helped you find your voice. Whether you’ve been with them since their early days or discovered their music recently, this tour promises to be an emotional, powerful experience filled with legendary performances.
Remember: while the band’s touring days are coming to an end, their music, their message, and their influence will live on forever. Every concert, every riff, and every chorus will be a testament to their enduring legacy.
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### Final Words
As Judas Priest embarks on this final chapter, we invite all fans to join us in celebrating their extraordinary journey. The “One Last Ride” tour will be a historic farewell, a celebration of metal’s true pioneers, and a testament to the power of music to unite, inspire, and endure.
