Scott Travis isn’t one to chase the spotlight, but after more than 30 years behind the drum kit for Judas Priest, it’s not surprising that fans and fellow musicians alike often name him among metal’s greatest drummers. In a recent interview, Travis shared his thoughts on that kind of praise, calling it an honor and also admitting it’s a bit surreal to hear his name mentioned in that conversation.
“I didn’t know that, but thank you very much. And it’s an honor — obviously, it’s an honor. And yeah, you’ve gotta kind keep it up, you’ve gotta practice and try and stay in shape. And luckily health is a big issue and I’ve been healthy and that’s by the grace of God. So I’m very appreciative of that. But yeah, it’s a great honor and it’s one of those things that are given to you or put upon you and it takes a long time, I guess, to win that sort of honor. So I’m very proud of it.”
Scott Travis, on Brazil’s 92.5 Kiss FM
Scott Travis joined Judas Priest in 1989, a time when the band was looking to evolve its sound. His arrival, punctuated by his thunderous performance on the 1990 album Painkiller, marked a significant shift in the group’s energy. That record didn’t just showcase his speed and power, it cemented his place as a defining part of their modern identity.
He’s never been the loudest voice in the band, but his playing has always spoken loudly enough. Travis says he’s grateful for the recognition but doesn’t think too much about where he ranks. For him, drumming has always been about feeling, locking into the song, supporting the band, and connecting with the moment.
When asked about being considered one of the best in metal, he pointed to the players who shaped him early on — names like Ian Paice, Neil Peart, and John Bonham. To be mentioned alongside drummers of that caliber, Travis said, is something that still feels a little hard to wrap his head around. And while the praise is meaningful, it’s not what drives him.
What keeps him grounded is the music itself. He spoke about the importance of chemistry within the band, of trusting instincts, and listening… both to the song and to the players around him. That sense of musical awareness is a big part of what’s kept Judas Priest’s rhythm section solid for decades.
The band’s latest release, Invincible Shield, continues that legacy, and Travis remains just as sharp behind the drums as he was three decades ago. He’s a major part of the band’s ongoing sound — even if he rarely seeks the credit. Judas Priest has seen lineup changes and evolutions over the years, but one constant has been the strength and reliability of Travis’s playing.
There’s something to be said for consistency in heavy metal, and Scott Travis has offered exactly that. His presence hasn’t just kept time… it’s helped define it. And for all the accolades, it seems he’s still most comfortable doing what he’s always done: playing hard, staying focused, and letting the music do the talking.