<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="rocknrolla">prostitutes....they are magical beings. Almost like unicorns. But instead of unicorns, prostitutes do exist. They cost real money. But..........It may just be worth the while. They do unbelievable things with their mouths.</blockquote><blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Extreme Noise Tara">Ryan is black.</blockquote>
Of course, I am inclined to say that it should be that duder most noted for popularizing and almost always wielding an ESP Explorer guitar with EMGs...but of course most of you are probably sick of me worshiping him.
In that list, yes Priest would get my vote. As someone once said, "Sabbath may have created metal but Priest showed everyone how metal should be played."
mercyful fate is where it's at, but i think if i were to play metal to some fan of country (or whatever) for the first time, Maiden would be a likeable starter band.