Phil Campbell, Longtime Motörhead Guitarist, Dies at 64

Phil Campbell, the long-time guitarist of the influential heavy metal band Motörhead, has died, his family announced on X (formerly Twitter). He was 64 years old. The news was confirmed by his agent, Thorsten Harm from Napalm Events, according to the German Press Agency.

A Brave Battle and Lasting Legacy

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who passed away peacefully last night after a long and brave battle in intensive care following complex, major surgery,” his family shared in a statement posted on the band’s X account. The statement further described Campbell as a “devoted husband, a wonderful father and a proud and loving grandfather,” adding that his legacy will “live on forever.”

Motörhead’s Integral Guitarist

Motörhead, founded in 1975 by Ian Fraser Kilmister, is considered one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. Campbell joined the band in 1984 and became an integral part of its sound, playing a key role in shaping the band’s musical direction as lead guitarist until their dissolution. Frontman Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister died in December 2015, and the group announced its disbandment the following day.

Continuing the Music with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons

Following Motörhead’s breakup, Campbell remained active in music with his band, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons. The band performed at the legendary Wacken Open Air festival and continued to tour, celebrating 50 years of Motörhead as recently as 2025. Despite Phil Campbell’s ongoing medical condition, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons were scheduled to perform the Motörhead set at the Takedown Festival 2026 on April 3rd, though only the non-Campbell members will now perform.