Portadown-born drummer Les Binks, famed for work with Judas Priest, dies aged 73

Armagh-native and former Judas Priest dummer Les Binks has died at age 73.

Though news of his death has only just been shared, reports have said the drummer passed away in March. A post from Judas Priest on Instagram confirmed Binks' death and praised his "first class" drumming.

"We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends and fans," the band wrote. "The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class - demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision."

 

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David Ellefson, former bassist for metal giants Megadeth, also paid tribute to Binks on Instagram.

"It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of the beloved Les Binks," Ellefson wrote. "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."

"My deepest condolences to his fans, friends and family," he added. "You will be missed, my friend."

 

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Binks was born in Portadown, Armagh, Northern Ireland in 1951. He began drumming during his childhood, joining a professional showband at 19. He would later play in Eric Burdon & War (aka WAR) and in The Butterfly Ball and The Grasshopper's Feast, a solo project by Deep Purple's Roger Glover.

He joined Judas Priest in 1977, recording Stained Class and Killing Machine with the band before leaving in 1979.

The drummer would rejoin the band briefly in 2022 when they were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

In an interview on K. K. Downing's official website, Binks recounted recording with Irish rocker Rory Gallagher after leaving Judas Priest.

"Shortly after Priest I got a call from Donal Gallagher to ask me to record with his brother Rory Gallagher," Binks said. "I had toured with Rory in the Joe O'Donnell Band which was managed by Donal."

"Don't know what happened to those recordings," he added. "I don't think they ever got released."

Binks would later join a series of lesser-known bands, including Axis Point, Lionheart, The Shakers and Raw Glory.

The drummer's cause of death has not been released.