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Sunday, March 15, 2026
On March 14, it was announced that Phil Campbell, known as the guitarist of British heavy metal music act Motorhead died as a result of complications following an unspecified surgical procedure. His death was confirmed by Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, a band featuring his sons that he performed with following Motorhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister’s death in 2015.[1] He recorded 16 albums with the band.[2]
He was the longest-tenured guitarist in the band’s history. He was married and had children and grandchildren. He was born in Pontypridd, Wales. He started playing guitar at age 10 and joined Motorhead in 1984.[3] He recorded 16 albums with the band.[4]
His death was confirmed by Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, a band featuring his sons that he performed with following Motorhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister’s death in 2015. He continued to participate in Motorhead-related events following the group’s disbandment.[5]
Motorhead’s sound is considered to be a precursor to the thrash metal subgenre of heavy metal, and was extremely influential on early bands in the style such as Metallica.[6]
He once self-described his playing style to Total Guitar: “I’ve never thought of myself as a technical player – I’ve probably got the slowest right hand in the business. My comfort zone is big volume and lots of blues.”[7]
Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler paid tribute to Campell on social media, where he wrote: “A truly nice man with a wicked sense of humour. Many a laugh was had on that tour, especially when he arrived at a gig in full make-up, skirt and blouse! RIP Phil, say hi to Lemmy [please don’t wear the skirt though]!” Other musicians who publicly gave condolences included former Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider.[8]
