This Saturday, March 14, the sad news of the death of legendary Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell at the age of 64 has come to light, due to a series of complications after major surgery that kept him in intensive care for some time. His family confirmed the news through an emotional statement on social media.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who passed away peacefully last night after a long and courageous battle in intensive care following complex surgery," the statement said. It is worth noting that the previous month, Campbell had cancelled several concerts in Australia and Europe due to health problems.
"Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father and a proud and loving grandfather, affectionately known as 'Bampi'. Everyone who was fortunate enough to know him loved him deeply and he will be greatly missed," the statement concludes, talking about what Phil Campbell was like on a personal and intimate level.
The musical legacy of Phil Campbell, a guitar genius
The British musician joined the band in 1984 and remained with them for 31 years, until Lemmy Kilmister's death in 2015. He is the longest-serving member of the group after Lemmy. At this time, the guitarist was leading his own group, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, along with his three sons, and was working on new music with Julian Jenkins.
The legacy Phil Campbell leaves in the music industry is infinite and there have been many tributes and expressions of affection for his family. For example, his former bandmate Mikkey Dee paid tribute to him by describing him as "the best rock guitarist I have ever played with" and highlighting his unique sense of humour.