Former Judas Priest drummer Les Binks has sadly passed away at 73 years old. Les drummed for the band between 1977 and 1979 and played on three of their classic albums, 1978’s Stained Class and Killing Machine (aka Hell Bent for Leather) and the 1979 live album Unleashed In The East. He also played in founding guitarist K.K. Downing’s KK’s Priest project from 2019 to 2021.
Judas Priest wrote on social media:
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…..
Gary Holt of Exodus and Slayer also paid tribute, writing, “RIP Les Binks, former drummer for @judaspriest . This man played on three of the greatest metal albums of all time. And the song Exciter invented thrash metal before thrash metal was a thing. His drumming was a huge part of that. And Stained Class is always tied with me for greatest metal album ever with Master of puppets. So sad💔”
Megadeth bassist David Ellefson said, “Playing alongside Les was truly a dream come true. His powerful and groundbreaking drumming helped shape the very foundation of speed metal, with iconic performances on tracks like “Exciter” and so many others that set the standard for generations to come.”
Rest in peace, Les. Thanks for the killer rhythms.