Phil Campbell, longtime Motörhead guitarist, dies at 64 after surgery

Phil Campbell, the longtime guitarist for Motörhead, has died at the age of 64, his family has confirmed.

The musician, whose full name was Philip Anthony Campbell, died following what his family described as a “long and courageous battle in intensive care” after undergoing a complex surgical procedure.

The announcement was shared in a statement posted on Instagram on Saturday.

“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 said. His family described him as a devoted family member who was widely loved.

“Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as ‘Bampi,’” the statement continued.

“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.”

The family also requested privacy following his death. The specific medical condition that led to Campbell’s operation has not been publicly disclosed.

Campbell rose to prominence as the guitarist for the British heavy metal band Motörhead. He joined the group in 1984 alongside guitarist Michael “Würzel” Burston.

During his time with the band, Campbell became a central member of its line-up. After Burston left Motörhead in 1995, Campbell continued as the group’s sole guitarist.

He recorded 16 studio albums with the band across its career.

Motörhead remained active until 2015, when the group disbanded following the death of frontman Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister.

After the band’s breakup, Campbell formed a new group, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, in 2016. The band released its debut album, Old Lions Still Roar, in 2019.

Across several decades in the music industry, Campbell became known for his long tenure with Motörhead and his contributions to the band’s catalogue.