Philip Anthony Campbell, Long-Serving Motörhead Guitarist, Dies at 64
Philip Anthony Campbell, renowned for his 31-year tenure as guitarist for the iconic British rock band Motörhead, has died at the age of 64. His passing was announced on Saturday, March 14, following a complex major operation and a subsequent battle in intensive care. After Motörhead's dissolution, Campbell continued his prolific musical career, forming Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons and releasing a solo album.
Death Announced
Philip Anthony Campbell passed away on Friday night, UK time, following a complex major operation and an extended period in intensive care. His passing was announced on Saturday, March 14, by his current band, Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons, and confirmed by his family on social media.
The family described him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known affectionately as 'Bampi.' They noted that his legacy, music, and memories would endure.
A Legendary Musical Journey
Born in Pontypridd, Wales, in 1961, Campbell began playing guitar at age 10. He joined his first band, Contrast, at 13, and later played in Rocktopus. In 1979, he co-founded the heavy metal band Persian Risk.
Joining Motörhead
Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984. He had auditioned for the band in 1983, where frontman Lemmy Kilmister decided to retain both Campbell and Michael ‘Würzel’ Burston as guitarists. Campbell remained with Motörhead until its disbandment in 2015, following Kilmister's death.
His 31-year tenure made him the band's longest-serving member alongside Kilmister, or the second-longest serving after him. During his time with Motörhead, Campbell played on 16 studio albums, including Orgasmatron (1986), 1916, Bastards, and Bad Magic (2015).
Campbell stated that he was responsible for the majority of Motörhead's riffs during his tenure and clarified that he did not consider himself a heavy metal player.
Post-Motörhead Ventures
Following Motörhead's disbandment, Campbell formed Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons with his three sons, Todd, Dane, and Tyla Campbell. This band released an EP and four albums, with their most recent, Kings Of The Asylum, released in September 2023.
Campbell also released a solo album, Old Lions Still Roar, in 2019, which featured guest artists such as Rob Halford and Alice Cooper.
Recent Health Concerns
In February 2024, Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons canceled an upcoming Australian tour due to medical advice regarding Campbell's health.
Tributes Pour In
Motörhead's official social media acknowledged Campbell's death, highlighting his 31-year tenure and role as a guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who embodied the band. They requested privacy for his family.
Former Motörhead drummer Mikkey Dee issued a statement expressing sadness and referring to Campbell as a friend and rock guitarist. Dee noted their collaboration on 12 studio albums. Doro Pesch also offered a tribute, expressing sadness and acknowledging Campbell as a friend.