In an extract from new book Denim and Leather, an oral history of 80s British heavy metal, Judas Priest, Saxon, Rainbow and others describe the 1980 debut of an event that cemented the UK rock community
Rob Halford (vocals, Judas Priest): That first Monsters of Rock [in 1980] was an extraordinary day. It was the first metal festival. And it kicked off a whole experience, not just in the UK but in Europe.
Paul Loasby (promoter, Monsters of Rock): [US promoter] Bill Graham had used the name Monsters of Rock. We spoke to Bill: “Do you mind if we use that name?” He said he didn’t. I think he’d pinched it as well.
