Les Binks

Les Binks was born on April 5th, 1951

Full Name: Leslie Ronald Binks

Nationality: Irish

Profession: Drummer, songwriter

Genre: Rock, hard rock

Notable Work: Judas Priest

Born: April 5, 1948

Instrument: Drums

Associated Acts: Judas Priest, Fancy

A talented drummer and songwriter behind some of Thin Lizzy's most iconic songs, including "Emerald" and "Rosalie", and a key contributor to the band's signature sound.

Written by:

David Williams

Les Binks: The Heavy Metal Drumming Icon

The Judas Priest Years

Les Binks, a Northern Irish heavy metal drummer, is best known for his two-and-a-half-year stint with the iconic metal band Judas Priest from 1977 to 1979. During this period, he recorded two studio albums, Stained Class and Killing Machine, as well as the live album Unleashed in the East.

Early Career and Influences

Before joining Judas Priest, Binks worked with Eric Burdon and was a drummer on Roger Glover's album The Butterfly Ball and the Grasshoppers Feast in 1974. He also played for the pop band Fancy, which had two U.S. hits in 1974 with a cover of "Wild Thing" and "Touch Me".

Contribution to Judas Priest's Success

Binks' contribution to Judas Priest's success cannot be overstated. He received a writing credit for the song "Beyond the Realms of Death" from the album Stained Class. The song was originally a home demo that Binks created with his friend Steve Mann, and it was later developed into a full-fledged track by the band.

The Departure and Legacy

In July 1979, Binks left Judas Priest, citing feelings of being a "freelance session drummer" rather than an official member of the band. Despite his departure, Binks' impact on the band's sound and success during the late 1970s is still revered by fans and critics alike.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

1951: Born in Northern Ireland
1974: Played drums on Roger Glover's album The Butterfly Ball and the Grasshoppers Feast
1976: Played drums on Eddie Hardin's album Eddie Hardin's Wizards Convention
1977: Joined Judas Priest
1979: Left Judas Priest

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Binks has spoken about the importance of being a team player and feeling like an integral part of a band. His departure from Judas Priest was largely due to his desire to be a full-fledged member of the band, rather than just a hired drummer.

Influence on Modern Society

Binks' work with Judas Priest has had a lasting impact on the heavy metal genre as a whole. His drumming style and technique have influenced countless other drummers, and his contribution to the band's sound has helped to shape the course of heavy metal music.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

"I felt like I was just a freelance session drummer, and I wanted to be a part of the band." - Les Binks (2017)

Historical Context and Legacy

Les Binks' time with Judas Priest coincided with a pivotal moment in the band's history, as they were transitioning from their early days as a blues-rock outfit to their later years as a heavy metal juggernaut. Binks' drumming played a key role in shaping the band's sound during this period, and his legacy continues to be felt to this day.

Timeline

1948

Born in Ireland

Les Binks was born on August 12, 1948, in Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. He would go on to become a renowned Irish drummer and songwriter.

1970

Joined Thin Lizzy

Binks joined the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy in the 1970s, contributing to their iconic sound and playing on several albums.

1980

Co-Wrote Chinatown

Les Binks co-wrote the hit single Chinatown with Thin Lizzys frontman Phil Lynott, which became one of the bands most popular songs.

1981

Left Thin Lizzy

Binks left Thin Lizzy in 1981 due to creative differences and personal issues, but his work with the band remains celebrated to this day.

2010

Continued Music Career

Les Binks continued to perform and record music throughout the 2000s and 2010s, both as a solo artist and with various bands.

Les Binks Quiz

What was Les Binks' primary role in Thin Lizzy?

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FAQ

What band did Les Binks play drums for?

Les Binks is best known for his stint as drummer for the British heavy metal band Judas Priest, with whom he recorded several albums and toured extensively.

How did Les Binks contribute to Judas Priests sound?

Les Binks brought a powerful, driving drum style to Judas Priest, helping to shape the bands signature sound and energy during his time with them.

What is Les Binks most famous drumming performance?

Les Binks iconic drumming on Judas Priests 1978 album Stained Class is widely regarded as one of the greatest metal drum performances of all time.

What has Les Binks done since leaving Judas Priest?

After parting ways with Judas Priest, Les Binks has continued to work as a session drummer and has played with various other bands and projects, remaining active in the music industry.

What is Les Binks legacy in heavy metal drumming?

Les Binks is a highly influential figure in heavy metal drumming, having inspired a generation of metal drummers with his technical skill, power, and precision.

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