AceShowbiz - Phil Campbell, the renowned Welsh guitarist and longtime member of the iconic heavy metal band Motörhead, has died at the age of 64.

The news of Campbell’s passing was shared by his family on social media, revealing that he lost his life following a long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation.

According to the family statement, Phil Campbell was “a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather,” affectionately known as “Bampi.” They expressed that he was deeply loved by everyone who knew him and that his legacy and music would endure forever.

The family also requested privacy during this difficult time as they grieve the loss of their beloved member.

Born in Pontypridd, South Wales, in 1961, Campbell began playing guitar at the age of 10. His early influences included legendary acts such as Black Sabbath, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin. In his youth, he performed with several bands including the cabaret group Contrast, the bar band Roktopus, and the metal band Persian Risk. He contributed to Persian Risk’s singles “Calling for You” and “Ridin’ High” before departing prior to the release of their 1986 debut album.

In 1984, Campbell joined Motörhead alongside fellow guitarist Michael “Würzel” Burston. They replaced Brian “Robbo” Robertson, who had himself replaced “Fast” Eddie Clarke. Both guitarists made their recording debut with Motörhead on the 1986 album Orgasmatron.

While Würzel left the band in 1995, Campbell remained a key member, making him the longest-serving guitarist in Motörhead’s history. Over the years, he recorded 16 albums with the band until the death of lead singer Lemmy Kilmister in 2015 effectively ended the group’s run.

Following the end of Motörhead, Campbell formed a new band in 2016 called Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, featuring his three sons Todd, Dane, and Tyla, along with vocalist Neil Starr from Attack! Attack. The group released their debut album, The Age of Absurdity, in 2018, followed by We're the Bastards in 2020.

After Starr’s departure, Joel Peters became the lead singer, contributing to the Bastard Sons’ 2023 live album Live in the North and their studio album Kings of the Asylum, also released in 2023.

In addition to his band projects, Campbell released a solo album titled Old Lions Still Roar in 2019. This record featured collaborations with notable artists such as Alice Cooper, Rob Halford of Judas Priest, and Dee Snider from Twisted Sister.

Phil Campbell is survived by his wife Gaynor and their three sons. His contributions to rock and metal music, along with his family legacy, leave a lasting mark on fans and fellow musicians worldwide.