Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Dies at 64 After Major Operation

Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has died at the age of 64, his family announced today.

In a heartfelt statement posted on social media by Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons—the band he formed with his three sons, Todd, Dane, and Tyla—the family confirmed Phil Campbell’s death late last night.

“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,” the statement read.

“Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as ‘Bampi.’ His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.”

Phil Campbell (born Philip Anthony Campbell on May 7, 1961, in Pontypridd, Wales) joined the iconic heavy metal band Motörhead in 1984 after a successful audition with frontman Lemmy Kilmister.

He became the longest-serving guitarist in the band’s history aside from Lemmy himself, staying with Motörhead for over three decades until the group’s disbandment following Lemmy’s death in December 2015.

During his tenure, Campbell contributed to classic albums including Orgasmatron (1986), 1916 (1991), March ör Die (1992), and Bastards (1993), helping define the band’s raw, high-energy sound through countless tours and recordings.

After Motörhead ended, Campbell continued his musical journey with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, blending hard rock with family collaboration. He lived in Pontypridd with his wife Gaynor and their children.

Tributes have flooded in from the rock and metal world, with fans and musicians remembering his ferocious guitar work, loyalty to Lemmy, and lasting influence on heavy music.

No further details on the exact nature of the major operation or cause of Phil Campbell’s death have been released at this time. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

The heavy metal community mourns the loss of one of its most enduring guitarists. Rest in peace, Phil Campbell.