Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell dies after intensive care treatment

JAKARTA - The world of heavy music is once again shrouded in clouds of grief. Phil Campbell, the guitarist who became the pillar of Motörhead for three decades, is reported to have died at the age of 64.

The Welsh musician breathed his last on Friday, March 13 at night local time, after undergoing intensive post-operative care.

The news of the guitarist's departure was confirmed directly through an official statement from the family that was uploaded on Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons' Instagram account.

The family said Campbell passed away peacefully in the company of loved ones. In the emotional message, the family described Campbell not only as a rock star on stage, but also as an extraordinary father and grandfather.

"With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who died peacefully last night," the family statement read.

"Phil was a devoted husband, an incredible father, and a proud and loving grandfather, affectionately known as 'Bampi.' He was loved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. The legacy, music, and memories he created with so many people will live on forever," he continued.

Campbell's dedication to the scene of rock music is beyond doubt. Joining Motörhead in 1984, he was a witness to history and the main driver of the band's energy for 31 years, until the band disbanded in 2015, following the death of the charismatic vocalist, Lemmy Kilmister.

Post-Motörhead era, Campbell did not stop working. He proved his productivity by releasing a solo album titled "Old Lions Still Roar" in 2019 and forming a new musical unit with his three sons - Todd, Dane, and Tyla - named Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons.

Condolences also came from the official Motörhead account which remembered Campbell as a person who had high integrity in music.

"Phil was an amazing guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motörhead blood in his veins. He always led with his guitar talent and brought an incredible sense of humor, but most importantly, Phil led with his heart," read the Motörhead statement.

"You couldn't be near him without laughing once or twenty times, because simply, Phil loved life and lived it with joy," he concluded.