AceShowbiz - Les Binks, former drummer for the iconic heavy metal band Judas Priest, has died peacefully in a London hospital at the age of 73. The band announced his passing on Instagram.

They expressed their deep sorrow and extended their condolences 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," their statement read.

Born James Leslie Binks on August 8, 1951, in Portadown, Northern Ireland, Les Binks was a drummer whose talents extended beyond Judas Priest.

Before joining the band, he played with the Animals, War, and the pop group Fancy. His connection to Deep Purple's Roger Glover led to his recruitment for Judas Priest's world tour in March 1977, replacing drummer Simon Phillips.

Binks' drumming featured prominently on 1978's "Stained Class" and "Killing Machine" (released as "Hell Bent for Leather" in the U.S.), and the 1979 live album "Unleashed in the East."

His double-bass drumming style and precision were key in tracks like "Exciter" and "Beyond the Realms of Death," the latter of which he co-wrote. These works laid the groundwork for the speed and thrash metal that dominated the 1980s.

Despite his significant contributions, Binks parted ways with Judas Priest in 1979 after a dispute over compensation related to "Unleashed in the East." He recounted feeling like a "freelance session drummer" rather than a full band member.

He continued to play with other bands such as Lionhearted, Tytan, and Axis Point, and led his band, Les Binks' Priesthood, in later years, performing classic Judas Priest hits.

In 2022, Binks was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Judas Priest. He reunited with former bandmates Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, and K.K. Downing for a three-song set at the induction ceremony, marking his first performance with them in over 40 years.

Reflecting on the reunion, Binks said, "We just decided, we are here at the invitation of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Let's just be professional about this, just bite your tongue and just get on with giving the audience the performance they came to see."

Les Binks leaves behind a legacy defined by his extraordinary drumming skills and the pivotal role he played in shaping Judas Priest's sound during a critical period. He is survived by his brother Stephen and sisters Movine and Irene. His contribution to heavy metal will be remembered and celebrated by fans and musicians alike for years to come.