Rob Halford Reflects on 38 Years of Sobriety and Judas Priest’s Shift from Leather to Pleather…
Rob Halford, the iconic frontman of Judas Priest, recently marked 38 years of sobriety, offering candid reflections on his journey and the band’s evolution away from their signature leather attire.
A Personal Triumph
Halford celebrated his sobriety milestone on January 6, 2024, expressing gratitude for the support he’s received. In a heartfelt message, he acknowledged the challenges of maintaining sobriety, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment and relying on personal tools like prayer and meditation to navigate temptations.
He has often spoken about the clarity and joy that sobriety has brought to his performances. Recalling his first sober show in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1986, Halford described the experience as euphoric, noting that performing without substances allowed him to connect more deeply with his music and audience. (Loudwire)
From Leather to Pleather
Judas Priest’s aesthetic has long been associated with leather, a staple of their heavy metal image. However, Halford revealed that the band transitioned to synthetic alternatives years ago, primarily for practical reasons. The switch to pleather made maintenance easier, especially during grueling tour schedules. Interestingly, this change went unnoticed until PETA approached the band in 2001, urging them to stop wearing leather. Halford responded humorously, stating, “We’re hellbent for pleather.” (Fox News)
Looking Ahead
Judas Priest continues to tour and produce music, with their 19th studio album, “Invincible Shield,” released in March 2024. The band is set to co-headline a 2025 fall tour across the U.S. with Alice Cooper, featuring 22 concerts and special guest Corrosion of Conformity on select dates. This tour follows the conclusion of Judas Priest’s ‘Invincible Shield Tour’ in 2024. (New York Post)
Halford’s journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting the possibility of personal transformation and the enduring power of music.
