Rock and metal band Motorhead guitarist Phil Campbell dies at 64

He was the band's longest-serving guitarist and played with them for over 30 years. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Phil Campbell, the longest-serving guitarist of pioneering British rock band Motorhead, has died at 64 following complications from a major operation.

The Welsh musician’s death was announced by his family on the social media accounts of his band Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons, which also comprise his three sons with wife Gaynor. According to the post, he had been 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’,” the caption reads. “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.”

His death was also announced on Motorhead’s social media platforms.

“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 twenty because, quite simply, Phil loved life and lived it with great joy.”

He joined Motorhead in 1984 after late frontman Lemmy Kilmister brought him on board to replace the previous guitarist, Scottish musician Brian Robertson.