Rob Halford, the legendary frontman of JUDAS PRIEST, has never been shy about speaking his truth. In a recent appearance on the Queer The Music podcast, the heavy metal icon opened up about the ongoing challenges he faces as an openly gay musician — particularly the persistence of homophobia in America.
“America Is Still Incredibly Homophobic”
Halford began the interview by expressing his frustration with the current climate in the U.S., noting that while there has been significant progress since the 1980s, homophobia remains a stubborn reality.
“America is still incredibly homophobic. I’ve lived here for a long time and I’ve seen a lot happen since the ’80s. It really gets me angry and upset,” Halford said.
For decades, Halford has been an influential voice not only in heavy metal but also in the LGBTQ+ community. Coming out publicly in 1998 was a landmark moment for both him and the genre, challenging stereotypes and pushing conversations about inclusivity forward.
Fans and the “I’m Not Gay” Disclaimer
Despite his groundbreaking visibility, Halford revealed that some fans still feel compelled to clarify their sexuality when praising JUDAS PRIEST.
“But when I go on stage and perform with Priest, some guys will say, ‘I love Judas Priest, but I’m not gay.’ You know that thing — ‘I’m a huge fan of Priest, but I’m not a gay guy’ — that still lives with me now to some extent. It might be a fraction,” he continued.
This admission underscores how deeply rooted biases can linger, even among audiences who admire his artistry.
Artistry Over Labels
However, Halford emphasized that when he’s on stage, he feels a powerful sense of unity with the audience — one that transcends labels.
“But when I walk out on stage, when Priest is doing headline tours and I know that everybody has come there to see this band and hear the songs that we’ve made and watch us perform, surely they’re there with complete acceptance in their heart. Everybody in that room is, like, ‘Well, we don’t care’ — as they shouldn’t. They shouldn’t care. This labeling, it shouldn’t be a part of anything. They shouldn’t care,” Halford explained.
This belief in the power of music to break down barriers has been a cornerstone of Halford’s career. Through his performances, he sees firsthand how shared love for heavy metal can momentarily dissolve prejudices.
“It’s About Your Art and Your Craft”
For Halford, the focus has always been on the music and the message rather than his identity. He closed the interview with a poignant reflection on how far he has come — and what truly matters.
“It’s about what you’re doing. It’s about your art and your craft and your work. That’s all that matters. So to be able to do that at this point in my life and to look back and to see how I got through all that stuff, it is an absolute miracle. Somebody’s been watching me from up there or over my shoulder for such a long time. And I’m aware of that now as I feel I’ve got a slightly better understanding of life through wisdom,” he said.
Halford’s words echo the resilience he has displayed throughout his decades-long career, surviving the highs and lows of fame while breaking barriers for LGBTQ+ visibility in heavy metal.
A Heavy Metal Trailblazer
Since joining JUDAS PRIEST in the 1970s, Halford’s powerful voice and leather-clad image have become synonymous with the genre itself. Yet, his decision to come out in an industry not known for its openness to LGBTQ+ identities made him a trailblazer, paving the way for greater acceptance.
While heavy metal still grapples with its own stereotypes, Halford’s presence has been instrumental in shifting perceptions, proving that authenticity and artistry can thrive regardless of sexual orientation.
Homophobia in the Broader Context
Halford’s comments on the Queer The Music podcast resonate beyond the world of heavy metal. They serve as a reminder that, despite progress, prejudice remains a daily reality for many LGBTQ+ individuals. His frustration reflects the ongoing work needed to achieve full acceptance and equality — not just within music, but in society at large.
Music as a Unifying Force
At the heart of Halford’s message is a belief in the unifying power of music. Whether performing for tens of thousands of fans or giving candid interviews, he consistently emphasizes that music should transcend labels, allowing people to connect over shared experiences and emotions.
His reflections remind fans that while identity shapes who we are, it does not define the value of our art. For Halford, it’s the music — the craft he has devoted his life to — that ultimately bridges divides.
Final Thoughts
Rob Halford’s openness about homophobia, acceptance, and artistry underscores his role as more than just a frontman for JUDAS PRIEST. He is also a powerful voice for inclusivity and authenticity in a genre often perceived as resistant to change.
By continuing to speak candidly about his experiences, Halford not only challenges lingering prejudices but also inspires fans and fellow musicians to focus on what truly matters: the art, the craft, and the shared joy of music.
