Motorhead guitarist Phil Campbell dies aged 64

Motorhead’s long-term guitarist Phil Campbell died on Saturday night, following complications from an operation.

Born in Pontypridd, Wales, the 64-year-old was the band’s guitarist from 1984 to 2015, when it disbanded after the death of founder Lemmy Kilmister.

“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,” his family said in a statement on his band’s Instagram page, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.

The band, which featured Campbell and his three sons, was slated to play in Australia later this year, but the tour was called off late last month due to his ill health.

Motorhead paid tribute to Campbell in a post shared to Instagram, describing him as a wonderful guitarist and “an enormous beam of light”.

“Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motorhead in his veins.

“He always led with his gift of guitar, and carried a great sense of humour, but most of all, Phil led with his heart. You could not be around him without a chuckle or 20, because quite simply, Phil loved life and lived it with great joy.

“There will be plenty of time for us to share stories – tales of Campbell glory – and some good jokes together; for now, please send love and positive energy to Gaynor and the boys while affording them time, space, and privacy.”

The family statement paid tribute to the man behind the public spotlight. “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,” it continued.

“His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.”

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