Former Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has passed away at the age of 64. Campbell was a key member of that legendary outfit from 1984 up until their 2015 disbanding in the wake of the passing of Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister. Following the end of Motörhead, Campbell went on to strike it out on his own, launching his outfit Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons. His passing was confirmed today March 14th by his bandmates in that latter outfit, who revealed he passed away from complications following a major surgery.
“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.”
The Motörhead camp also offered up a statement on Campbell‘s passing, offering:
“He was Motörhead‘s guitarist for 31 years (the longest serving member aside from Lemmy) having joined in 1984. After Lemmy’s passing, he was blessed to form Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons with his sons Todd, Dane and Tyla, which recorded and toured together for years.
Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motörhead 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 twenty, 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 damn good jokes together; for now, please send love and positive energy to Gaynor and the boys while affording them time, space, and privacy.
Much love and RIP Phil. The world has just lost an enormous beam of light, and we are devastated.”
Mikkey Dee, who handled drums in Motörhead alongside Campbell and Kilmister from 1992 until the band’s dissolution, also commented on Campbell‘s passing, offering:
“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!
Love, Mikkey“
