Who really ruled heavy metal in 1985—Judas Priest or Iron Maiden? In this episode, Robert John Hadfield dives into a fascinating vintage Hit Parader magazine that attempted to settle one of metal's greatest debates. Using interviews with Rob Halford, Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, K.K. Downing, and Glenn Tipton, the article explores the similarities, differences, and friendly rivalry between two of the most influential bands in heavy metal history.

Along the way, Robert examines the contrasting images of the two bands, their different approaches to success in America and the UK, their views on MTV and music videos, and the albums that defined the genre in the mid-1980s. The discussion also highlights classics like Screaming for Vengeance, Defenders of the Faith, The Number of the Beast, and Powerslave, while asking whether fans ever truly had to choose between these legendary groups.

The episode also includes a Rock Trivia Challenge focused on drummer lineup changes in both bands, Nicko McBrain's pre-Maiden career, Dave Holland's connection to Trapeze, and a look at which drummer was the elder statesman in 1985. As always, Robert shares personal memories from the era and invites viewers to weigh in on one of heavy metal's most enduring arguments.

Chapters

00:00 – Two Heavy Metal Giants Collide
00:21 – The Hit Parader Debate: Priest vs. Maiden
01:01 – Rock Trivia Challenge
02:14 – Comparing the Images of Both Bands
03:01 – Defenders of the Heavy Metal Faith
03:55 – Classic Album Covers: Powerslave and Defenders of the Faith
05:03 – Rob Halford on Competition
06:16 – K.K. Downing's Criticism of Iron Maiden
07:59 – Bruce Dickinson Responds
08:39 – Steve Harris on Priest's Influence
09:23 – Priest's Long Road to Success
10:00 – Screaming for Vengeance vs. The Number of the Beast
11:31 – America vs. Britain: Different Priorities
13:14 – Bruce Dickinson on National Identity
14:04 – MTV, Videos, and Heavy Metal
14:46 – Iron Maiden's Historic MTV Connection
16:00 – The Power of Music Videos
17:38 – Hit Singles vs. Album-Oriented Metal
19:24 – What Both Bands Did Better Than Almost Anyone
20:52 – The Importance of Music and Stage Shows
22:12 – Did Fans Really Have to Choose?
24:22 – Rock Trivia Answers Revealed
26:12 – Unboxing a Future Audiomover Album Feature
26:52 – Megadeth's So Far, So Good... So What! Preview

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