Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell passes away at 64 after complex major operation; Fans mourn veteran musician

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains mention of death.

Legendary guitarist Phil Campbell who is best known for his long association with the iconic rock band Motörhead, has passed away at the age of 64. The veteran musician died following complications after a major operation.

The news was confirmed on Saturday, March 14, through a message shared on the Facebook page of his band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.

Family shares emotional statement

The news of Phil Campbell’s passing was shared through a heartfelt statement from his family.

The post read: “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.”

Motörhead remembers its longtime guitarist

The official page of Motörhead also shared an emotional tribute to the guitarist. In the tribute, the band wrote: “We cannot believe we’re saying this…it is with profound sadness that we have to say Philip Anthony Campbell has passed. He was Motörhead's guitarist for 31 years (the longest serving member aside from Lemmy) having joined in 1984.”

The tribute continued: “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 further added: “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.”

Fans share heartfelt tributes online

Following the announcement of Phil Campbell’s death, fans and fellow musicians flooded social media with tributes. One fan wrote: "There is one hell of a party going on upstairs. And I can guarantee it's bloody loud..."

Another fan shared a tribute referencing Lemmy Kilmister, writing: "You know that Lemmy welcomed him to rock and roll Valhalla with a bottle of Jack Daniel's. Rest easy dude!"

One post read: "Mikkey Dee….should rethink on even trying to do a Motorhead tour after this. There is no possible Motorhead Without Campbell and Lemmy. Period. RIP legends." Another tribute stated: "You know he is up there with Lemmy, Fast Eddie, and Filthy Animal rocking the heavens."

A legendary career with Motörhead

Phil Campbell was born in Wales and went on to become one of the most recognised guitarists in rock music. His career reached global audiences when he joined Motörhead in 1984.

He joined the band alongside guitarist Michael Würzel Burston. Phil Campbell remained part of the group for more than three decades.

His tenure lasted until the band disbanded in 2015 after the death of Lemmy Kilmister. During this time, Phil Campbell helped shape Motörhead’s signature sound.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”