Motörhead’s Longtime Guitarist Phil Campbell Passes Away at 64 Following Major Surgery

Phil Campbell, the Welsh guitarist renowned for his 31-year tenure with the heavy metal band Motörhead, has died at the age of 64. His family, through the band Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons—which he formed in 2016 with his sons Todd, Dane, and Tyla—announced the news on social media. Campbell passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, after enduring a prolonged and difficult stay in intensive care following a complex major operation. The statement highlighted his roles as a devoted husband, loving father, and affectionate grandfather, often called ‘Bampi’ by his family. He was deeply cherished by those close to him and will be profoundly missed. Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984, becoming a cornerstone of the band’s powerful sound and contributing to its iconic performances and recordings until the group’s dissolution in 2015 after the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister. Post-Motörhead, he continued his musical journey with his family band, releasing music and touring to keep rock alive for fans old and new. His influential guitar work helped define an era of hard rock and heavy metal, leaving a lasting legacy that his family says will endure through his music and the memories he created. Tributes from fans, musicians, and media outlets worldwide have poured in, celebrating his dedication to both his craft and his family.