K. K. Downing is the first original member of Judas Priest to step into the public eye with an autobiography. "Leather Rebel - My Life with Judas Priest" is only the second book from what is arguably the most important heavy metal band in Britain, alongside Iron Maiden, to be published in English, following "The Steel Path of Judas Priest" (2007). Founded in 1969 in Birmingham, Judas Priest shaped the genre with their twin-guitar sound and leather image like few other bands. With over 50 million records sold, Priest became the archetypal heavy metal band in the 1980s thanks to hits like "Breaking The Law," "Living After Midnight," and "You've Got Another Thing Comin'." However, until now, no member of the group has put their perspective into book form. Original guitarist Kenneth Downing is now rectifying this with "Leather Rebel - My Life with Judas Priest," just in time for the band's golden anniversary. In the 224 pages, K. K. Downing pulls no punches, recounting his own childhood in a home marked by domestic violence as candidly as the rivalry with Iron Maiden. The role of Rob Halford within Judas Priest is also discussed, as well as his troubled relationship with former guitar partner Glenn Tipton and manager Jayne Andrews, which ultimately led to his departure from the band in 2011. Today, K. K. Downing lives in Shropshire and still carries Judas Priest deep in his heart.