K. K. Downing
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Kenneth "K.K." Downing (born 27 October 1951 in West Bromwich, England) is a guitarist and one of the founding members of the British Heavy metal band Judas Priest. He received his stage name when a girl in Denmark could not pronounce his name and called him 'K.K.' instead.
Influenced by Jimi Hendrix, Downing bought his first guitar at the age of sixteen. Downing found little support from his parents for his career of choice. This did not change even after Judas Priest achieved worldwide commercial success and critical acclaim. To this day Downing's mother insists he should get a "proper job".[citation needed]
Downing has been noted duel lead with fellow Judas Priest guitarist Glenn Tipton. Together with his schoolmate and fellow band founding member Ian Hill, Downing has been solely dedicated to the band for more than 35 years.
[edit] Childhood
Downing dropped out of school when he was fifteen, then kicked out of his house when he was sixteen and has not (reportedly) talked to his parents since. He had no ambition at the time, until he picked up the guitar. His parents did not support his future career, and still do not.
[edit] Homes
Downing owns a home in Spain, but his main abode is Astbury Hall in Shropshire, England (worth $3.64 million).
Downing's English home is so huge and unused because of him not having a family, he opened up a bed and breakfast in Astbury Hall. He has a golf course and swimming pools for the people to use.
[edit] Gear
Downing has many guitars, among them:
- 1964 Gibson Flying V Limited Edition with Gibson PAF pickups
- 1970 Gibson Flying V with Maestro vibrato bar
- 1969 Fender Stratocaster (White) with left-handed neck
- 1970-71 Fender Stratocaster (Sunburst)
- Custom Hamer Vector, Vector KK and KK Mini V guitars
- ESP Custom V guitar and a Dan Johnson custom built V
