Les Binks, Judas Priest’s drummer through their classic late Seventies period, has died at the age of 73. A cause of death has not been revealed, but his passing was confirmed by his former bandmates.
“We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends and fans,” Priest wrote in a group statement, adding of their former skinsman, “The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class – demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision. Thank you Les – your acclaim will live on…”
A death notice adds that Binks had passed away “peacefully at hospital in London” on March 15th.
Born James Leslie Binks, the drummer had performed with Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover on the latter’s solo material, and likewise with UK pop-rock group Fancy before joining Judas Priest in 1977. He recorded two studio albums with Priest — 1978’s Stained Class and Killing Machine (a.k.a. Hellbent for Leather) — and appeared on their 1979 live release, Unleashed in the East. He left the band later that year.
Binks went on to play in various projects in the ensuing years, and formed his own Les Binks’ Priesthood project in 2017.
In 2022, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his Judas Priest bandmates, and he performed three songs with them at the induction ceremony, marking his first live appearance with the group in 43 years.
Judas Priest meanwhile continue to promote last year’s Invincible Shield release. They tour through Europe throughout the spring and have more U.S. dates on the way this fall. You’ll find more date details here.