Les Binks, Judas Priest’s Classic-Era Drummer, Dies at 73
The metal world is mourning a monumental loss: Les Binks, former drummer of Judas Priest and an essential part of the band’s golden era, has died at the age of 73. The band confirmed the news on April 14, sharing a heartfelt tribute: “We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les… The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class — demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision.”
Binks’s drumming helped define three of Priest’s most celebrated albums: Stained Class (1978), Hell Bent for Leather (1978), and the thunderous live classic Unleashed in the East (1979). His lightning-fast fills, precise timing, and genre-defining groove were instrumental in elevating Judas Priest to metal trailblazers.
Despite his vital role in shaping Priest’s sound, Binks left the band after Unleashed in the East, citing a rift with management. “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,” Binks explained years later, calling the situation “ludicrous.” His departure marked the end of an era for fans who considered his drumming the heartbeat of Priest’s rise to power.
Still, his contribution was eventually recognized on a massive scale: In 2022, Binks was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, alongside fellow Priest alumni including Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, Ian Hill, Scott Travis, and K.K. Downing. “It was a bit surreal,” Binks later said of the ceremony. “I never had any problems with anyone in the band. I fell out with management, not with my bandmates.”
The induction gave fans a chance to see Binks reunited with his Priest brothers for the first time in decades. He and K.K. Downing — who reconnected in 2017 — shared the stage once more, choosing to put old tensions behind them. “Let’s just be professional and give the audience the performance they came to see,” Binks recalled. “That’s what we did.”
Tributes have poured in from the metal community, praising Binks not only for his groundbreaking drumming, but also for his humility, professionalism, and lasting influence.
As Judas Priest said best: “Thank you Les — your acclaim will live on.”
