Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has died at the age of 64, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians around the world. The legendary British rock band confirmed the news Saturday in a statement honoring Campbell’s decades-long career and influence in heavy metal.
“We cannot believe we’re saying this… it is with profound sadness that we have to say Philip Anthony Campbell has passed,” the band said in a statement shared on social media.
Campbell was a central figure in Motörhead for more than three decades. He joined the band in 1984 and went on to become its longest-serving member aside from iconic frontman Lemmy Kilmister. Over the course of 31 years with the group, Campbell helped shape the band’s signature sound and cement its place in rock history.
Known for his fast, aggressive guitar style and energetic stage presence, Campbell played on many of the band’s later albums and toured extensively with Motörhead across the globe. His contributions helped carry the band through multiple eras of heavy metal and earned him a devoted following among fans.
“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,” the band said.
Following the death of Lemmy Kilmister in 2015, Campbell continued his musical career by launching the band Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons alongside his three sons. The group recorded several albums and toured internationally, keeping his passion for rock music alive while sharing the stage with family members.
In their tribute, Motörhead described Campbell as a talented musician whose personality left a lasting impression on everyone around him.
“Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motörhead in his veins,” the statement read. “He always led with his gift of guitar and carried a great sense of humor, but most of all, Phil led with his heart.”
Motörhead itself was founded in 1975 by Lemmy Kilmister, Larry Wallis, and Lucas Fox. The band became one of the most influential groups in the history of heavy metal, known for its loud, high-energy sound and relentless touring schedule.
Among the band’s most famous songs are “Ace of Spades” and “Overkill,” both of which helped define the band’s legacy and influence generations of rock musicians.
Campbell’s passing marks the loss of one of the key figures behind Motörhead’s enduring sound and reputation as one of the most respected bands in hard rock and metal.
