British metal legends Judas Priest have released a powerful new cover of Black Sabbath’s iconic “War Pigs” as a tribute ahead of Sabbath’s final concert this weekend. The band stated that this rendition, once used as their live entrance music, is a heartfelt salute to Ozzy Osbourne and the Sabbath legacy.
The current lineup—Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Richie Faulkner, Ian Hill, and Scott Travis—reflects on their shared roots in Birmingham and their intertwined history. They've maintained the classic’s ominous riff and Halford’s commanding vocals in this emotionally charged rendition.
Though Priest won’t be playing at Sabbath’s “Back to the Beginning” event in Birmingham, their cover symbolically connects the two iconic bands. “We are honored to show our love for Ozzy and Black Sabbath,” Halford stated, emphasizing the unity and mutual respect between the bands and their fans worldwide.
Halford expressed his gratitude and respect for the band: “It’s an honor to show our appreciation for Ozzy and Black Sabbath,” he stated, emphasizing that the song has united both groups and their fans globally. The emotional gesture reinforces the brotherhood between the two legendary bands.
The studio-recorded cover, accompanied by an official video, reinforces this momentous tribute coinciding with Sabbath’s farewell. Meanwhile, Judas Priest is gearing up for their “Maximum Fun Tour” across North America, beginning this September.
