Phil Campbell, the Welsh guitarist who spent 31 years as the driving force behind Motörhead’s thunderous sound, has died following a “courageous battle” in intensive care, per .usatoday.com.
The 64-year-old musician passed away peacefully on Sunday night after undergoing a complex major operation. The news was confirmed by his family through his band, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell,” the statement read. “He passed away following a long battle in intensive care.”
Born in Pontypridd, Wales, Campbell first made his mark by founding the metal band Persian Risk in 1979. However, it was in 1984 that his life changed forever when he joined Motörhead to replace Brian Robertson.
Alongside the iconic Lemmy Kilmister, Campbell became the band’s longest-serving member, appearing on 16 studio albums. His debut, 1986’s Orgasmatron, signaled the start of a three-decade partnership that defined the hard rock genre. His signature riffs powered some of the band’s most enduring anthems, including “Deaf Forever,” “Eat the Rich” and “Born to Raise Hell”.
Following the death of Lemmy in 2015 and the subsequent dissolution of Motörhead, Campbell remained prolific. He formed Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons with his three sons; Todd, Dane and Tyla, continuing to tour and record.
Tributes from the rock world have highlighted not only his talent but his legendary sense of humour. Drummer Mikkey Dee, who played alongside Campbell from 1992, described him as “the funniest guy I have ever known and the best rock guitar player I have ever played with.”
The official Motörhead social media channels also paid tribute, stating: “Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer and musician who had Motörhead in his veins. He led with his gift of guitar, but most of all, Phil led with his heart.”
•Featured image: Phil Campbell/Didier Messens/Getty
