Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Les Binks, Former Drummer of Judas Priest, Dies at 73

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Press Room, Los Angeles, California, USA - 05 Nov 2022
Photo By John Salangsang/Shutterstock

Les Binks, the former drummer for Judas Priest, passed away at the age of 73, as confirmed by multiple reports on April 15, 2025. Binks, renowned for his exceptional drumming techniques, joined Judas Priest in 1977 and played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of the band's late-1970s era. He was a key figure in the creation of two of the band's pivotal albums, “Stained Class” and “Killing Machine” (known as “Hell Bent for Leather” in the U.S.). Additionally, his work on the beloved live album, “Unleashed in the East,” remains noteworthy for capturing the energetic live performances of the legendary heavy metal band.

Born in Portadown, Northern Ireland, Binks started playing drums at an early age, eventually moving to London in 1972. He quickly became a sought-after session and touring musician. Prior to his time with Judas Priest, Binks collaborated with a series of notable artists, including Eric Burdon of The Animals and Deep Purple's Roger Glover. His talent was undeniable, and it was Glover who recommended him for the Judas Priest tour, allowing Binks to transition from a temporary fill-in position to becoming a full-fledged band member. During his tenure, Binks not only performed, but also contributed creatively, earning a writing credit for the song “Beyond the Realms of Death.”

Binks' departure from the band in 1979 stemmed from conflicts with management over financial disputes concerning the live recording “Unleashed in the East.” Despite this contentious exit, Binks maintained a strong connection to Judas Priest's music. He later played alongside former members in tribute acts and even shared the stage with the band during their 2022 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His significant contributions to music and his extraordinary drumming skills were celebrated both during his life and posthumously by fans around the world.

Judas Priest's statement expressed their deep sorrow at Binks' passing and praised his first-class drumming style that demonstrated unique techniques, flair, and precision. After leaving Judas Priest, he continued to perform with various bands, including Lionheart, Tytan, and Raw Glory, and participated in the Judas Priest tribute band Les Binks' Priesthood.

Les Binks left a legacy that had a lasting impact on the heavy metal genre and influenced many drummers who followed in his footsteps. His work with Judas Priest during their formative years helped to set the tone for the band's signature sound, which has inspired countless musicians and fans globally. Les Binks will be remembered not just as a drummer, but as a pivotal contributor to one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history. The music he helped create continues to resonate with listeners both old and new, ensuring that his acclaim indeed will live on.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Arejay Hale, Lzzy Hale of Halestorm performs at the Boardwalk Rock Festival on May 17, 2025 in Ocean City, Maryland Halestorm performs at the Boardwalk Rock Festival on May 17, 2025 in Ocean City, Maryland, MD, USA - 17 May 2025

Halestorm Reveals Title Track ‘Everest’

Halestorm, the GRAMMY Award-winning hard rock band, is making waves in the music scene with the reveal of “Everest,” the…

Goo Goo Dolls lead vocalist John Rzeznick performs at the 2025 Stagecoach Music Festival on Sunday, April 27, 2025 in Indio, CA. Stagecoach 2025 , Los Angeles, California, USA - 27 Apr 2025

Goo Goo Dolls Played at Demi Lovato’s Wedding

In a celebration as heartfelt as it was glamorous, pop star Demi Lovato tied the knot with musician Jordan “Jutes”…

JOHN FOGERTY performed for SXSW 2025 on March 11, 2025 at Stubbs BBQ in Austin, Texas John Fogerty Performs During SXSW 2025, Austin, Texas, USA - 11 Mar 2025

John Fogerty Celebrates His 80th Birthday & Re-Records CCR Classics

John Fogerty, the illustrious rocker who co-founded Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), recently commemorated his 80th birthday in a grand fashion.…

Kevin Cronin & Styx Kick Off Summer 2025 Tour

The 2025 Summer Tour featuring Styx and Kevin Cronin, most popularly known as the frontman for REO Speedwagon, is set…

Fans in New York's Tri-State area showed up through rain and lingering cloudy skies to MetLife Stadium to see Beyoncé light up the stage in the first of five shows in East Rutherford, New Jersey on her COWBOY CARTER TOUR. Beyoncé "Cowboy Carter Tour" in concert, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA - 22 May 2025

Watch Beyoncé Perform a Gender Reveal for One Lucky Couple

Beyoncé recently delighted fans during her Cowboy Carter Tour in East Rutherford, New Jersey, by performing a heartwarming gender reveal…

Nick Holmes, Guido Zima and Gregor Mackintosh from Paradise Lost at the Metal Hammer Awards 2024 in the Uber Eats Music Hall. Berlin, 31.08.2024

Paradise Lost Parts Ways With Drummer Guido Zima Montanarini

British gothic metal legends Paradise Lost have announced a significant lineup change, parting ways with drummer Guido Zima Montanarini. The…

Yungblud 'Yungblud' in concert promoting 'Hello Heaven, Hello', Scala, UK - 21 Mar 2025

Yungblud Announces ‘Up Close And Personal’ Intimate UK Shows

Yungblud, the dynamic and flamboyant rock artist from Doncaster, is making waves yet again with his announcement of the ‘Idols…

Musician ALEX G (ALEXANDER GIANNASCOLI) during the Outside Lands Music Festival in San Francisco, California Outside Lands Music Festival 2023, San Francisco, California, U.S. - 11 Aug 2023

Alex G Announces New Album & Shares Video for New Single

Indie rock artist Alex G is set to release his tenth studio album Headlights, marking a significant transition as it…

Talking Heads - Jerry Harrison, Chris Frantz, David Byrne and Tina Weymouth Various

Unreleased Tracks From Talking Heads Coming Soon

The Talking Heads are celebrating a milestone with the upcoming release of a super deluxe edition of their celebrated 1978…