Former Judas Priest drummer Les Binks has died at the age of 73.
On April 14th,the band released the following statement via 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…”
Binks played drums on Stained Class, Hell Bent For Leather (released as Killing Machine in the United Kingdom) and the Unleashed In The East albums.
After the release of Unleashed In The East, Binks left the band and was replaced by ex-Trapeze member Dave Holland.
Les later told former guitarist K.K. Downing‘s official web site that the making of the live album “caused a rift between me and [Priest‘s] manager and ultimately led to my decision to leave the band. 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. A completely ludicrous scenario. It’s a classic heavy metal live album which I believe eventually went platinum and he didn’t want me to receive a penny for it. Crazy f-ker. But that’s what happens if a band allows someone like that to manage them — they lose members. So exit drummer number four.”
Binks was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in November 2022 along with some of the other former and current members of Judas Priest.
Additional source: blabbermouth.net
