Phil Campbell (musician)

Phil Campbell (born Philip Anthony Campbell on 7 May 1961) is a Welsh musician and songwriter. He is best known as the lead guitarist of the rock band Motörhead, with whom he played from 1984 until the band's dissolution in 2015 following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister.

Early Life

Phil Campbell was born in Pontypridd, Wales. He began playing guitar at the age of 10, inspired by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin. By the age of 13, he was performing semi-professionally with a cabaret band.

Career

Persian Risk

Before joining Motörhead, Campbell was a member of the Welsh heavy metal band Persian Risk. He played with the band from 1979 to 1984, contributing to their early recordings and live performances.

Motörhead

In 1984, Campbell auditioned for Motörhead and was selected as one of two new guitarists, alongside Würzel. His first album with the band was Orgasmatron (1986). Campbell remained with Motörhead for over three decades, contributing to numerous albums including 1916, Bastards, and Inferno. He was known for his energetic playing style and his ability to blend seamlessly with the band's hard-hitting sound.

Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons

After the dissolution of Motörhead, Campbell formed a new band called Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, which includes his three sons: Todd, Dane, and Tyla. The band has released several albums and continues to tour, keeping the spirit of rock and roll alive.

Personal Life

Phil Campbell is married and has three sons, all of whom are involved in his current musical projects. He is known for his down-to-earth personality and dedication to his craft.

Discography

With Persian Risk

• Calling for You (1981)
• Ridin' High (1983)

With Motörhead

• Orgasmatron (1986)
• Rock 'n' Roll (1987)
• 1916 (1991)
• Bastards (1993)
• Inferno (2004)
• Bad Magic (2015)

With Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons

• The Age of Absurdity (2018)
• We're the Bastards (2020)

Legacy

Phil Campbell is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in the heavy metal genre. His work with Motörhead has left a lasting impact on rock music, and he continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

See Also

• Motörhead
• Lemmy Kilmister
• Heavy metal music
• Rock music