Legendary guitarist Phil Campbell – best known for his decades with Motörhead – has died at the age of 64.
The news was confirmed via social media by his band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, which includes his sons Todd, Dane, and Tyla Campbell. According to the statement, Campbell passed away peacefully following complications after a major operation.
The band wrote: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who passed away peacefully last night following a long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation.
Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as “Bampi”. He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be missed immensely. His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.” They also asked that the family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.
In February, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons canceled a run of shows across Australia and Europe scheduled between March and May due to medical advice given to Campbell. No further details were provided at the time.
Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984, remaining with the band until its end in 2015 after the death of frontman Lemmy. Over his 31-year tenure, he became a defining part of the band’s sound and eventually its sole guitarist for the final two decades of the group’s career.
Following Lemmy‘s death in 2015, Motörhead officially ended, and Campbell later formed Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons with his sons, continuing to tour and release music.
Enter your information below to get a daily update with all of our headlines and receive The Orchard Metal newsletter.
