Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Dies at 64

Phil Campbell, the Welsh guitarist who shaped the raw power of Motörhead for more than three decades, has died at age 64. His family announced the news on Saturday, March 14, 2026, stating that Campbell passed away peacefully the previous evening after a prolonged fight in intensive care following a complex major operation.

The family described the musician, born Philip Anthony Campbell on May 7, 1961, in Pontypridd, Wales, as a devoted husband, wonderful father and proud grandfather, affectionately known as "Bampi" to his grandchildren. They requested privacy during this difficult time, noting that his legacy, music and memories would endure. Specific details about the operation were not disclosed, but Campbell's health had raised concerns earlier in the year. In February 2026, his band, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, canceled planned tours in Australia and Europe on medical advice, prioritizing his well-being.

Campbell's career began in earnest as a teenager, playing guitar from age 10 and performing semi-professionally by 13 with local pub and cabaret bands in South Wales. He formed the heavy metal group Persian Risk in 1979 before auditioning for Motörhead in 1984,...