The rock and metal world is mourning the loss of Phil Campbell, the longtime guitarist of Motörhead, who has passed away at the age of 64.
Campbell was the band’s longest-serving guitarist, joining Motörhead in 1984 and remaining a core member until the band came to an end in 2015 following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister. His sharp, driving guitar style became a defining part of the band’s sound during its most celebrated decades.
The Campbell family confirmed the news in a statement shared this weekend.
“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.”
Born in Wales, Campbell joined Motörhead during a major transition period in the band’s history. Alongside Lemmy Kilmister and drummer Mikkey Dee, he helped shape the band’s later era, appearing on classic records such as Orgasmatron, 1916, and Bastards. His aggressive but blues-rooted guitar playing gave Motörhead a heavier, sharper edge through the late 1980s and 1990s.
For many fans, Campbell became just as much a symbol of the band as Lemmy himself. Whether on stage delivering thunderous riffs or standing quietly to the side in his trademark stance, he was part of the relentless engine that kept Motörhead roaring for more than three decades.
Following Motörhead’s final chapter, Campbell continued performing with his own project, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, often joined by his sons and carrying the spirit of classic heavy rock forward.