Judas

Judas has listened to metal since she was about seven years old—what she calls her “little creature” days. Her brother introduced her to the music, and Iron Maiden was one of the first bands that truly hooked her.

Choosing one is difficult because she has attended many incredible concerts, each memorable in its own way. The 2017 Book of Souls tour in Houston stands above the rest because it was her first time seeing Iron Maiden live after listening to them for so many years.

The night became even more special when another favourite, Ghost, opened the show—several major thrills packed into one concert.

For Judas, it is the experience of attending a metal show itself. The community, the people, and the music align so perfectly that everyone seems to enter a world of their own.

Strangers become family for that moment and the whole place feels like home. She feels the same bond within the goth community, and when those two worlds meet, the feeling reaches another level.

Death metal. The growls, vocal range, and aggression pull her in. She also appreciates its roots in thrash metal and the many other subgenres death metal has inspired.

It is another difficult choice, but Judas says you cannot go wrong with Dio. “The Last in Line” delivers an instant boost.

The Monsters of Rock Festival in 1984. AC/DC, Van Halen, Ozzy Osbourne, Mötley Crüe, Gary Moore, Y&T, and Accept sharing one bill would have been unbelievable.

She would have loved to see those remarkable performers in their earlier years. Nothing compares with the classic Monsters of Rock moments, and her old soul wishes she could have experienced that era firsthand.

Depeche Mode is Judas’s number-one band of all time. The Doors, Joy Division, Boy Harsher, and Twin Tribes are also high on a list that could go on much longer.

Music is everything to her, and she has a particular love for the sounds of the 1980s.

Her workout music is usually a mixture of the bands and albums mentioned throughout the interview, plus many others. The choice changes with her mood, so narrowing it down to one band or record is nearly impossible.

Iron Maiden’s Killers.

Fitness, films, writing, and dancing are all important to Judas. She is also fascinated by Mother Nature, dark and unusual history, and discovering new and exciting things. Knowledge is power.

Always be yourself. Your truest, most authentic self is what makes you unique, regardless of what anyone else says or thinks. Self-love is what truly matters.

Keep kicking ass and stay consistent in whatever you pursue—even when motivation or inspiration disappears. Consistency will carry you forward. Stay disciplined.