Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has died at the age of 64, his family announced Saturday.
In an emotional statement, loved ones paid tribute to the Welsh rocker, revealing he passed away after a “long and courageous battle in intensive care following a complex major operation,” according to the Daily Mail.
Campbell rose to fame as a longtime member of Motörhead, playing alongside legendary frontman Lemmy Kilmister for more than three decades. The band disbanded in 2015 after Lemmy’s death.
Following Motörhead’s breakup, Campbell continued performing with his family band, Phil Campbell and the B*d Sons, which he formed with his sons Todd, Dane and Tyla.
The group shared the heartbreaking news on social media alongside a black-and-white photo of Campbell with his beloved wife, Gaynor, honoring his legacy and the deep impact he had on fans and family alike.
The statement said “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.”
Phil Campbell was a Welsh rock guitarist best known for his long tenure with the legendary British heavy metal band Motörhead. Born Philip Anthony Campbell on May 7, 1961, in Pontypridd, Wales, he developed a passion for music at an early age and began playing guitar as a teenager. Inspired by classic rock and blues players, Campbell quickly earned a reputation for his fast, aggressive playing style.
Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984 after auditioning alongside guitarist Würzel. He soon became a key part of the band’s lineup alongside frontman and bassist Lemmy Kilmister and drummer Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor. During his three decades with the group, Campbell helped shape the band’s signature high-energy sound and performed on many of their most successful albums, including Orgasmatron (1986), 1916 (1991) and Sacrifice (1995).
Motörhead toured relentlessly around the world, becoming one of the most influential bands in heavy metal and hard rock. Campbell remained a core member until the band disbanded in 2015 following Lemmy’s death.
After Motörhead ended, Campbell continued making music with his family band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, formed with his sons Todd, Dane and Tyla. The group released several albums and toured internationally, keeping Campbell active in the rock scene.
In February, the band was forced to cancel its Australian tour due to Phil’s health issues, with plans to reschedule the shows for later this year.
