Motorhead guitarist Phil Anthony Campbell has died aged 64 following a "long and courageous battle," his family has confirmed. The Welsh rock star died on Friday March 14 following a complex major operation, a family statement said.
"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, shared on Facebook, read.
© Redferns via Getty Images"Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as 'Bampi'. 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."
It concluded: "We kindly ask that our family’s privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time.
© RedfernsPhil was born in Pontypridd, Wales in 1961, and started playing guitar when he was 10-years-old. At the age of 12, Phil met Lemmy, who was 16 years older, and asked him for an autograph. Nine years later, in 1984, Motörhead held auditions for a new guitarist, and he hired Phil and Michael "Würzel" Burston.
Phil was with the band for the next 30 years, and also toured with his own band Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, featuring his three sons, Todd, Dane, and Tyla.
© Classic Rock MagazineIn February 2026, the band cancelled their Australian tour "due to medical advice". They added: "We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this is likely to cause our fans, but Phil’s health will always be our number one priority."
"Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motorhead in his veins," Motorhead posted in response to his passing. "He always led with his gift of guitar, and carried a great sense of humour, but most of all, Phil led with his heart. You could not be around him without a chuckle or 20, because quite simply, Phil loved life and lived it with great joy."
The message continued: "There will be plenty of time for us to share stories – tales of Campbell glory – and some good jokes together; for now, please send love and positive energy to Gaynor and the boys while affording them time, space, and privacy. Much love and RIP Phil. The world has just lost an enormous beam of light, and we are devastated."
© Getty Images"He was the funniest guy I have ever known and the best rock guitar player I have ever played with," added Mikkey Day, who was also a member of Motorhead. "His vibe and feel for rock music were outstanding. We wrote 12 studio albums together, and he never stopped surprising me with his extreme talent. Most of all, I will miss hanging out with the nicest guy you could ever meet."
Motorhead pioneered the heavy metal music scene in the UK, and are best known for their 1980 hit "Ace of Spades".
He welcomed his sons with wife Gaynor, whom he met in a local pub in Pontypridd when they were teenagers.
"I probably wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Gaynor. We have been married for 44 years. She is the one to credit for raising our boys – Todd, Dane, and Tyla," Phil once said. "I was away nine months each year for 30 years on tour – she held the fort and kept the family together. She is incredible, honest and strong. I got lucky."
