Tributes to rock legend who 'led with his heart'

TRIBUTES have been paid to Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell, who died after what his family described as a "long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation".

- BY TAITE JOHNSON AND ANDREW FORGRAVE

Phil Campbell of Motörhead, pictured performing during the Download Festival in 2013, has died aged 64

(LEWIS STICKLEY/PA)

The 64-year-old, who was born in Pontypridd, was best known for being the rock band's guitarist from 1984 until they broke up in 2015 after the death of frontman Lemmy.

The band are known for hits Ace of Spades, Overkill, and Born to Raise Hell.

Lemmy spent a large part of his childhood on a farm in Benllech, Anglesey, where he acquired his nickname. Learning to play guitar while in North Wales, the band's frontman worked briefly at a Hotpoint factory in Llandudno Junction before heading across the border at the age of 16 to find fame.

In April 2020, Campbell spoke candidly about witnessing Lemmy's difficulties during his final period, revealing that Lemmy "wasn't quite himself" and had been "ageing a little bit more" throughout Motorhead's last tour. He also acknowledged that adapting to the band's conclusion proved challenging initially.

Phil had been recently touring with his own band, Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, which includes his three sons.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Phil's children said he died on Friday evening, adding: "His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever."

The full statement reads: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who passed away peacefully last night following a long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation.