Drummer Les Binks played with metal legends Judas Priest in the late ’70s appearing on the band’s “Stained Class,” “Hell Bent For Leather” and “Unleashed In The East” albums.
Sadly it was reported that Binks has passed away at the age of 73. “We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends and fans,” Judas Priest said in a statement. “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 was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame with the band in 2022. He told The Metal Crypt at the time: “It was a bit surreal because this all came out of the blue. Priest had been put forward for this award — nominated, I think is the word — three times in total. The first two times, they didn’t get through. Third time lucky. It’s up to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame to decide who they’re going to induct. They looked back on the band’s career. It has to go back as far as 25 years. They say who’s been influential on the creative side of things and the band’s legacy has to form — what’s the word? — the band’s identity and led to the success that they achieved. They included me on that. They recognized me on that level, which is good. Of course, K.K., who was one of the finer members of the band, left in 2011. We were both included.”
“I hadn’t seen them for such a long time,” Les added. “I gave them all a big hug because I never fell out with anyone in the band. I fell out with the band’s management, but not with them. I never had any cross words or any problems with anyone in the band personality-wise or creatively. I know there were issues that K.K. had, especially with Glenn and the management as well, but I didn’t have those issues. I was able to reunite with the guys in the band without any problems at all.”
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