Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Has Passed Aged 64

Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has died at the age of 64, marking the end of an era for one of heavy music’s most enduring riff architects.

The news broke on Saturday morning (March 14th, US) through a statement posted by his band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, the group he formed alongside his sons Todd, Dane, and Tyla after Motörhead closed the book in 2015 (per Metal Sucks).

His family confirmed the Welsh guitarist passed away peacefully after a difficult medical fight.

“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.

“We kindly ask that our family’s privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time.”

DNA of Motörhead’s most iconic years

Campbell’s name is welded into the DNA of Motörhead’s most iconic years, joining the band in 1984, he stayed for 31 years, making him the longest serving member outside of Lemmy himself. Across that stretch, Campbell helped shape the band’s thunderous catalogue, co-writing 12 studio albums and becoming the sole guitarist during the group’s final two decades, his playing fused blues grit with the full throttle violence Motörhead made their trademark.

Motörhead drummer Mikkey Dee shared an emotional tribute following the announcement:

“We got the news this morning, and it’s so extremely sad, about the sudden passing of my brother and dear friend, Phil Campbell.

“He was the funniest guy I have ever known and the best rock guitar player I have ever played with. His vibe and feel for rock music were outstanding. We wrote 12 studio albums together, and he never stopped surprising me with his extreme talent. Most of all, I will miss hanging out with the nicest guy you could ever meet.

“My family and I send our thoughts to Phil’s family. I truly wish them all the best for the future, and I will be right here if they ever need anything.

“Sleep well, my friend and rock soldier. Say hi to Lemmy, Würzel, Filthy and Eddie. I am sure you’ll be a crazy gang hanging out together again!”

Motörhead’s official channels also paid tribute, calling Campbell a guitarist who had the band “in his veins” and remembering his humour, heart, and lifelong dedication to rock and roll.

In February, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons cancelled shows scheduled across Australia and Europe after Campbell received medical advice, though no further details were shared at the time.

Phil Campbell leaves behind a legacy carved into the loudest corners of rock history, for three decades, his riffs helped keep Motörhead’s engine roaring.

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