The heavy metal world is mourning the loss of Les Binks, the former drummer for Judas Priest, who passed away recently at the age of 73. While a cause of death was not released, it was reported he died “peacefully at hospital in London.” Paying tribute to his former bandmate, ex-Judas Priest guitarist Kenneth “K.K.” Downing shared extensive, heartfelt memories of Binks‘s crucial role in the band and their recent reunions.
Downing recounted the circumstances under which Binks joined the iconic band around 1977, following the recording sessions for Sin After Sin with session drummer Simon Phillips. When Phillips declined to join Priest full-time, the band sought a drummer of comparable skill. Downing stated:
“The response was: There is only one other man, and that man is Les Binks! We did not hesitate to track Les down and after we heard him play, we knew we had to secure him at all costs. Fortunately and with much relief, Les agreed to come on the road with us.”
Binks‘s tenure marked a significant era for Judas Priest. As Downing reflected:
“The rest is in the history books. We had many great tours with Les and he recorded with us throughout a very critical part of the band’s career.” Binks‘s powerful and precise drumming anchored classic albums such as Stained Class, Hell Bent For Leather (known as Killing Machine in the UK), and the seminal live album Unleashed In The East.
Downing expressed gratitude for the chance to play with Binks again in recent years. He highlighted a 2019 performance at The Steel Mill in Wolverhampton, dubbed the ‘MegaPriest’ gig, which also featured David Ellefson and Ripper Owens. Downing fondly remembered:
“Les was his usual immaculate self on the drums, just as I had always remembered. I am so happy that the show was recorded and will live on forever.”
Their paths crossed again for Judas Priest‘s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Downing cherished the time spent reminiscing with Binks in Los Angeles more than the ceremony itself:
“We played the gig and it was pretty sensational, but I have to say that the time and days we spent together turning back the clock to when we were just young men aspiring and hoping to one day achieve success, was far more valuable to me than any award or prestigious accolade.”
Downing concluded his personal tribute simply: “RIP Les Binks“.
Judas Priest also issued an official statement acknowledging Binks‘s passing and contributions:
“We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends, and fans. The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class — demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision. Thank you Les — your acclaim will live on.”
Binks eventually left Judas Priest after the release of Unleashed In The East, succeeded by Dave Holland. Binks himself later attributed his departure to a conflict with the band’s management over royalties for the live album, stating on Downing‘s website:
“I just didn’t see the point in continuing to work with a band whose manager didn’t want me to receive any payment for that live album… It’s a classic heavy metal live album which I believe eventually went platinum and he didn’t want me to receive a penny for it… So exit drummer number four.”
Despite the circumstances of his departure, Les Binks‘s impact on Judas Priest‘s sound and his legacy as a technically gifted drummer were formally recognized with his 2022 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, cementing his place in metal history.
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