The song was featured on the band’s debut 50 years ago
Founding Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has released an updated version of “Never Satisfied” as a tribute to the recent 50th anniversary of the band’s debut album, Rocka Rolla. Originally appearing on the 1974 album, and as the B-side single to its title track, “Never Satisfied” was co-written by Downing and Al Atkins—the band’s original lead singer prior to Rob Halford.
“It’s a real treat and great fun to revisit and record this version of ‘Never Satisfied,’ a song I co-wrote over 50 years ago! I really didn’t overthink it—I just plugged in my guitar drifting back to a time when Metal was an embryo of an idea. I knew the song already sounded great with Rob Halford, but I was especially keen on hearing the mighty Ripper Owens on the vocals,” Downing shares. “The response to the 50th anniversary of Rocka Rolla has been so well received, I wanted to do a little somthing to add to the celebration — and I can see “Never Satisfied” becoming a fan favorite at a future KK’s Priest show!”
The new version of “Never Satisfied” is now available for streaming and downloading via Exciter Records, in partnership with K.K.’s label Hellfire Thunderbolt Records.
Exciter Records, owned by publisher Reach Music, recently acquired the masters and publishing rights to both Rocka Rolla and Sad Wings of Destiny by Judas Priest. A 50th anniversary release of Sad Wings of Destiny is currently in production for release in 2026.
