Judas Priest Announces 2025 ‘Shield of Pain’ Tour Celebrating Painkiller’s 35th Anniversary…
British heavy metal legends Judas Priest have officially announced their long-awaited Shield of Pain tour, a thunderous celebration marking the 35th anniversary of their seminal 1990 album, Painkiller. Revered by fans and critics alike as one of the most powerful records in heavy metal history, Painkiller redefined the band’s sound and showcased their unparalleled speed, aggression, and virtuosity. Now, three and a half decades later, Judas Priest is preparing to bring that fire back to the stage in full force.
The European leg of the tour is scheduled to kick off on June 14, 2025, in Hamar, Norway, before roaring across 12 countries. It will include stops in Sweden, Finland, Poland, Italy, France, and the Netherlands, before reaching its epic conclusion in Oberhausen, Germany, in July 2025. Fans can expect a high-octane show packed with stage theatrics, fire-breathing motorcycles, and a setlist built around Painkiller in its entirety, accompanied by a selection of classic Priest anthems spanning their 50-year career.
Speaking about the tour, frontman Rob Halford shared his excitement: “Painkiller was a game-changer—not just for us, but for heavy metal as a whole. It’s a record that continues to influence bands across generations. This tour is our way of honoring that legacy and sharing its raw power with our fans one more time.”
The band—Halford, guitarist Richie Faulkner, bassist Ian Hill, drummer Scott Travis, and guitarist Andy Sneap—will unleash Painkiller with its full original tracklist including fan favorites like “Hell Patrol,” “Night Crawler,” “Leather Rebel,” and the title track “Painkiller,” a song long considered one of the most demanding vocal and instrumental performances in metal history.
The Shield of Pain tour comes on the heels of their successful 2024 world tour supporting their latest album Invincible Shield, which saw the band performing to sold-out arenas and receiving widespread acclaim for their rejuvenated energy. With Halford’s soaring vocals still commanding the stage and Faulkner’s shredding prowess keeping the spirit of Priest alive, fans old and new are in for a blistering ride.
Exclusive VIP packages, including early entry, soundcheck access, and meet-and-greets with the band, will be available. General ticket sales begin on July 19, 2025, through the band’s official website and select ticketing partners.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan who witnessed the original Painkiller era or a newcomer discovering Priest’s ferocity for the first time, the Shield of Pain tour promises an unforgettable experience. Judas Priest remains a force of nature—louder, faster, and more defiant than ever.
The Metal Gods are calling. Answer the roar.