Legendary heavy metal band Judas Priest is back with a bang in 2026, announcing their much-anticipated new album “Eternal Force.” The album promises to be a monumental release, featuring collaborations with numerous rock and metal icons, and a heartfelt tribute to Motörhead’s legendary frontman Lemmy Kilmister. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the release, which has now been officially scheduled, alongside a full tracklist and details about the star-studded lineup.*
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### The Return of Judas Priest
After a brief hiatus following their critically acclaimed 2018 album *Firepower*, Judas Priest has been actively teasing new material over the past year. The band, led by iconic vocalist Rob Halford, has always been known for pushing the boundaries of heavy metal, blending powerful riffs with soaring vocals and a rebellious spirit. Their upcoming album, **“Eternal Force,”** is said to be their most ambitious project yet, aiming to honor their legacy while exploring new musical landscapes.
### Release Date and Anticipation
The band officially announced that “Eternal Force” will be released on **March 15, 2026**. This release date was confirmed through a video message from Rob Halford, who expressed excitement and gratitude toward the fans for their unwavering support.
_”We’ve poured our hearts into this record,”_ Halford stated. _”Eternal Force is about the resilience of metal, the eternal spirit that keeps us going. We can’t wait for everyone to hear it.”_
### Star-Studded Collaborations
One of the standout features of “Eternal Force” is its impressive roster of guest artists. Judas Priest has always been influential, inspiring countless musicians over the decades, and for this album, they’ve brought together a constellation of rock legends.
The album will feature collaborations with:
– **Dave Grohl** (Foo Fighters, Nirvana): Contributing to the energetic drums and backing vocals on several tracks.
– **Zakk Wylde** (Ozzy Osbourne, Black Label Society): Lending his signature guitar riffs to amplify some of the heavier tracks.
– **Lita Ford**: Providing guest vocals on a power ballad that’s already generating buzz.
– **Tony Iommi** (Black Sabbath): Making a special guest appearance on a track that pays homage to the roots of heavy metal.
### Heartfelt Tribute to Lemmy Kilmister
Perhaps the most emotionally charged part of “Eternal Force” is the tribute track dedicated to Lemmy Kilmister, the legendary frontman of Motörhead, who passed away in 2015. Lemmy’s influence on heavy metal and rock music is immeasurable, and Judas Priest’s tribute underscores his importance to the genre.
The song, titled **“Lemmy’s Legacy,”** features a blend of riffs reminiscent of Motörhead’s raw sound, combined with Halford’s iconic vocals. The track also includes a guitar solo by Zakk Wylde, capturing the spirit of Lemmy’s aggressive style. The lyrics pay homage to Lemmy’s rebellious attitude, his dedication to the music, and his enduring influence.
Rob Halford shared a heartfelt message about Lemmy: _“Lemmy was a true original. He embodied everything that’s great about rock and metal. This song is our way of saying thank you and keeping his spirit alive.”_
### Tracklist and Musical Direction
While the full tracklist has been officially revealed, here are some of the key songs to look forward to:
1. **Eternal Force** – The anthemic opener setting the tone for the album’s themes of resilience and power.
2. **Steel and Fire** – A heavy, riff-driven track featuring Zakk Wylde.
3. **Lemmy’s Legacy** – The heartfelt tribute with guest vocals from Lita Ford.
4. **Dark Horizons** – A darker, more introspective song exploring struggles and perseverance.
5. **Rise of the Phoenix** – An uplifting anthem about rebirth, featuring Dave Grohl on drums.
6. **Shadow of the Past** – Incorporating classic Judas Priest elements with modern production.
7. **Infinite Night** – A slower, melodic piece with atmospheric elements.
8. **Eternal Force (Reprise)** – A closing track that ties the album’s themes together with a powerful crescendo.
### Artwork and Promotion
The album cover features a striking image of a fiery phoenix rising from ashes, symbolizing rebirth and resilience—an apt metaphor for Judas Priest’s enduring legacy. The artwork was created by renowned artist Derek Riggs, famous for his work with Iron Maiden.
The band has also announced a global promotional tour scheduled for late 2026, where fans can experience live performances of tracks from “Eternal Force” along with classic hits.
### Fans’ Reactions and Expectations
The announcement has sparked a wave of excitement across social media platforms. Longtime fans are praising the lineup of collaborators and the tribute to Lemmy, seeing it as a testament to Judas Priest’s influence and humility.
Music critics are already speculating that “Eternal Force” could be a potential contender for metal album of the year, citing the stellar collaborations and the band’s proven songwriting prowess.
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### Final Thoughts
With “Eternal Force,” Judas Priest continues to prove why they are hailed as pioneers of heavy metal. The combination of new material, revered guest artists, and a heartfelt tribute to Lemmy Kilmister makes this album a must-listen for metal fans worldwide. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark record in the band’s illustrious career.
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