Judas Priest Unveils Set List for 2025 “Shield Of Pain” Farewell Tour Celebrating 35 Years of *Painkiller*
In an exciting development for heavy metal fans worldwide, Judas Priest has officially announced the set list for their upcoming 2025 “Shield Of Pain” tour. This highly anticipated farewell tour is set to be a monumental event, marking the end of an era for one of the most influential bands in the history of metal. Designed both as a celebration of their legendary career and as a tribute to the 35th anniversary of their iconic 1990 album *Painkiller*, the tour promises an electrifying experience that will resonate with fans old and new alike.
The “Shield Of Pain” tour, which kicks off in early 2025, is not just a farewell—it’s a grand celebration of Judas Priest’s enduring legacy. The band, which has been a pioneering force in heavy metal since the 1970s, has crafted a set list that combines their most beloved classics with powerful selections from *Painkiller*, the album that redefined their sound and cemented their status as metal icons. Fans have eagerly awaited details of the set list, and Judas Priest has delivered with a lineup that promises to be both nostalgic and explosive.
### The Significance of *Painkiller*
Released in 1990, *Painkiller* marked a pivotal point in Judas Priest’s career. The album was a return to their heavier roots, featuring faster tempos, more aggressive riffs, and Rob Halford’s ferocious vocals. It is widely regarded as one of the band’s greatest works and a cornerstone of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Celebrating its 35th anniversary on this tour, Judas Priest aims to honor its legacy while showcasing the evolution of their sound over the decades.
### The Set List: A Perfect Tribute
The announced set list is a carefully curated collection that highlights the band’s most influential tracks. Fans can expect high-energy performances of songs like “Painkiller,” “The Ripper,” and “Between the Hammer and the Anvil,” which have become staples at Judas Priest concerts. The title track, “Painkiller,” is anticipated to be a show-stopping moment, with its complex guitar riffs and thundering chorus that have made it a metal anthem.
Alongside these *Painkiller* highlights, the set list features a selection of fan-favorite classics spanning their extensive discography. Well-known hits such as “Breaking the Law,” “Living After Midnight,” “Electric Eye,” and “Turbo Lover” will undoubtedly energize audiences. Deep cuts like “Night Crawler” and “Metal Meltdown” are also included, offering a comprehensive journey through the band’s career. The set list is designed to satisfy both die-hard fans and newcomers, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
### Band Members’ Perspectives
Frontman Rob Halford expressed his excitement about the tour, emphasizing its significance as a celebration of their artistic journey. “This is a farewell, but also a tribute to the incredible legacy we’ve built,” Halford stated. “We want to give our fans an unforgettable experience—one last time—filled with the energy and passion that Judas Priest is known for.”
Guitarist Richie Faulkner and bassist Ian Hill shared similar sentiments, highlighting their enthusiasm for paying homage to *Painkiller* and their extensive catalog. Faulkner noted, “This tour is about celebrating all we’ve achieved together. It’s a bittersweet moment, but we’re committed to delivering a show that will be remembered for years to come.”
### Tour Details and Expectations
The “Shield Of Pain” tour is scheduled to visit multiple continents, with dates lined up across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Australia. The band has booked large arenas and festival appearances, promising spectacular stage production, pyrotechnics, and their signature high-voltage performance. Tickets are expected to sell out rapidly, given the band’s legendary status and the emotional significance of this farewell.
### Legacy and Future Plans
While Judas Priest has not announced plans for new studio albums following this tour, members have expressed interest in continuing to create music and remain active within the metal community. However, this tour serves as a fitting farewell, allowing fans to witness their legendary live presence one last time.
The announcement has already sparked a wave of excitement across social media, with fans sharing their memories and anticipation for what promises to be a historic event. As Judas Priest prepares to take their final bow on this chapter of their storied career, their influence on heavy metal remains undeniable.
### In Conclusion
The 2025 “Shield Of Pain” tour is set to be a definitive farewell for Judas Priest, offering fans a chance to celebrate their monumental legacy. With a set list that combines their greatest hits and the iconic *Painkiller* album, the band aims to deliver a powerful, nostalgic, and unforgettable live experience. As the metal world prepares to say goodbye to one of its most legendary bands, Judas Priest’s final tour promises to be a fitting tribute to their enduring impact on music and culture.