Phil Campbell, Longtime Motörhead Guitarist, Dies at 64
Phil Campbell, the guitarist best known for his 31-year tenure with the iconic British heavy metal band Motörhead, has died at the age of 64. The news was announced Saturday, March 14, 2026, by his band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.
A Courageous Battle and Lasting Legacy
According to a statement released on the band’s social media accounts, Campbell passed away peacefully last night following a long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, affectionately known as “Bampi.” The statement emphasized that he was deeply loved and his legacy, music, and memories will live on forever.
From Persian Risk to Motörhead
Campbell’s musical journey began with the British heavy metal band Persian Risk in the late 1970s, where he spent five years before joining Motörhead in 1984. He replaced guitarist Brian Robertson following his departure from the band.
A Key Member of the Motörhead Sound
Campbell’s time with Motörhead commenced with their seventh album, Orgasmatron (1986). He became the band’s longest-serving guitarist, remaining with them until their disbandment after the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister in 2015. During his three-decade run, Campbell contributed to 16 studio albums and crafted memorable riffs for tracks such as “Deaf Forever,” “Eat the Rich,” and “Born to Raise Hell.”
Post-Motörhead Career and Recent Challenges
Following Motörhead, Campbell pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album Old Lions Still Roar in 2019. He similarly fronted the band Campbell and the Bastard Sons, releasing a trio of albums. A European tour planned for earlier this year was canceled due to medical advice received by Campbell, as the band announced previously.
Recognition and Tributes
In 2020, when Motörhead was nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Campbell was initially overlooked. However, following a fan outcry, he and drummer Mikkey Dee were added to the ballot alongside Lemmy and founding guitarist “Fast” Eddie Clarke and drummer Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor.
Mikkey Dee’s Heartfelt Remembrance
Mikkey Dee, who joined Motörhead in 1992 and remained until Lemmy’s death, paid tribute to Campbell on social media, describing him as the “funniest guy” he had ever known and the “best rock guitar player” he had ever played with. Dee highlighted Campbell’s outstanding vibe and experience for rock music, noting their collaboration on 12 studio albums and his constant ability to surprise with his talent. He concluded by expressing his deep sadness and offering condolences to Campbell’s family, wishing his friend a peaceful rest and suggesting he would be reunited with former bandmates Lemmy, Würzel, Filthy and Eddie. Source