Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Dies at 64 After 'Complex, Major Operation'

The rocker's sons said his "legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever."

Mar. 14, 2026 at 6:40pm

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Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell has died at the age of 64 following a "long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex, major operation," his family confirmed. Campbell joined the rock band in 1984 and played with them until they disbanded in 2015 after the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister. After Motörhead, Campbell continued making music with his three sons as Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.

Why it matters

Phil Campbell was a beloved and long-serving member of the iconic heavy metal band Motörhead, known for his guitar skills and warm personality. His passing is a significant loss for the music community and his fans, who appreciated his contributions to the band's legendary status.

The details

Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984 alongside fellow guitarist Michael 'Würzel' Burston. He played with the band for 31 years, making him one of the longest-serving members aside from Kilmister. After Motörhead disbanded in 2015, Campbell continued making music with his three sons as Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, recording albums and touring. His family said he was "a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather" who will be deeply missed.

  • Phil Campbell died on March 14, 2026.

The players

Phil Campbell

The main guitarist for the heavy metal band Motörhead, who played with the group from 1984 until they disbanded in 2015 following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister.

Todd, Dane and Tyla Campbell

Phil Campbell's sons, who announced his passing and paid tribute to him on social media.

Lemmy Kilmister

The frontman of Motörhead, who passed away in 2015, leading to the band's disbandment.

Michael 'Würzel' Burston

The other guitarist who joined Motörhead alongside Phil Campbell in 1984.

Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons

The band formed by Phil Campbell after Motörhead, featuring his three sons.

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What they’re saying

“His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.”

— Todd, Dane and Tyla Campbell, Phil Campbell's sons (Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons Facebook page)

“Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motörhead in his veins. 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 twenty, because quite simply, Phil loved life and lived it with great joy.”

— Motörhead (Motörhead Facebook page)

The takeaway

Phil Campbell's passing is a significant loss for the heavy metal community, as he was a beloved and long-serving member of the iconic band Motörhead. His music, personality, and contributions to the band's legacy will be deeply missed by fans around the world.