Les Binks, Legendary Drummer of Judas Priest Dead At 73

Les Binks (August 8, 1951 – March 15, 2025) The current members of Judas Priest expressed their sorrow and respect through a public statement. They said, “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…..” Les Binks, born James Leslie Binks in Portadown, Northern Ireland, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at a hospital in London at the age of 73. No specific cause of death was disclosed, though a funeral notice requested donations to the Chest, Heart & Stroke Association. Binks was a legendary drummer best known for his influential tenure with Judas Priest from 1977 to 1979. His dynamic, precise drumming shaped the band’s seminal albums Stained Class (1978), Killing Machine/Hell Bent for Leather (1978), and the live album Unleashed in the East (1979). Before Judas Priest, Binks performed with Eric Burdon & War, pop group Fancy, and Roger Glover’s The Butterfly Ball and the Grasshopper’s Feast. After leaving Priest due to disputes with management, he continued drumming with bands like Lionheart, Tytan, and Raw Glory, and later formed Les Binks’ Priesthood to perform Judas Priest classics. In 2022, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Judas Priest, reuniting with the band for a three-song performance, his first in 43 years. Binks was celebrated for his technical skill and flair, with fans and peers like former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson crediting him for laying the groundwork for speed and thrash metal. Judas Priest mourned his loss in a statement: “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…” He was remembered as a humble, passionate musician who left an indelible mark on heavy metal. He is lovingly remembered by his brother, sisters, and extended family, as well as countless fans and musicians worldwide. #judaspriest #judaspriestfans #judaspriestforever #rockandrollhalloffamer

Added 10 Jul 2026