AceShowbiz - Acclaimed guitarist John Sykes, known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at age 65 following a hard-fought battle with cancer.

As shared in a heartfelt statement on Skyes' official Facebook page, the beloved musician has left a profound impact on the world of rock music. "It is with great sorrow we share that John Sykes has passed away after a hard fought battle with cancer," read the statement.

Noted for his exceptional musical talent, Sykes was also a warm and charismatic individual who "lit up the room." Throughout his career, he marched to the beat of his own drum and had a soft spot for the underdog.

In his final days, Sykes expressed heartfelt gratitude for his unwavering fans who supported him through the years. His memory will continue to inspire and extinguish the shadow of his absence.

Sykes' musical journey began in Reading, England, where he was born in 1959. Influenced by his time in Spain, he picked up the guitar as a teenager. His professional career took off in the late 1970s with Streetfighter.

In 1980, Sykes joined Tygers of Pan Tang, recording two albums. He then connected with Thin Lizzy frontman Phil Lynott in 1982, collaborating on the single "Please Don't Leave Me" before officially joining the group.

Sykes brought a heavier touch to Thin Lizzy's final album, "Thunder and Lightning," which featured his co-written track "Cold Sweat." After leaving Thin Lizzy, Sykes joined Whitesnake in 1984. He contributed guitar parts to "Slide It In" and co-wrote the band's highly successful self-titled album in 1987, including hit singles like "Still of the Night" and "Is This Love."

Unfortunately, Sykes was fired by Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale before the album's release. Despite his absence from the accompanying music videos and tours, Sykes' co-written tracks propelled Whitesnake to global success.

Subsequently, Sykes formed Blue Murder with Carmine Appice and Tony Franklin, releasing two studio albums. He also pursued a solo career, releasing five albums between 1995 and 2004, with "Bad Boy Live!" serving as his last full-length album.

Sykes' legacy extends beyond his music. He toured with a Lynott-less reincarnation of Thin Lizzy and auditioned for Guns N' Roses in 2009. In recent years, he released singles such as "Dawning of a Brand New Day" and "Out Alive."

Upon hearing the news of Sykes' passing, David Coverdale shared a tribute on X, acknowledging Sykes's talent while expressing condolences to his loved ones. Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash also paid his respects with a simple "RIP" post.

John Sykes' loss is a heavy one for the rock community. His exceptional guitar skills, songwriting abilities, and kind nature have touched countless lives. His memory will forever be cherished by fans and fellow musicians alike.