Phil Campbell, former Motörhead guitarist, died of multiple organ failure following complications after a series of surgical operations. The cause of death was confirmed by an inquest in London.
Campbell died on 13 March at the age of 64. The findings of the inquest were presented on Friday 2 October at St Pancras Coroner’s Court, as reported by the Mirror.
According to the inquest, Campbell underwent two liver transplants at the Royal Free Hospital in London during 2026. The second transplant was deemed successful, but he then developed further complications and needed bowel surgery before being transferred to the intensive care unit. His condition deteriorated quickly and led to multiple organ failure. The inquest also heard that the musician had stayed away from alcohol for seven years.
Coroner Dr. Richard Brittain said: «My view is that there is nothing here to suggest that his death could have been prevented».
His family had announced the death in March, explaining that he had gone through a difficult period in intensive care after major surgery. They described him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather, known to his grandchildren as «Bampi», and asked for respect for their privacy.
The statement shared at the time by Motörhead’s official channels said that Phil was a wonderful guitarist, songwriter, performer and musician, with Motörhead in his blood. «He always carried on with his gift on the guitar and with a great sense of humour, but above all with his heart», it said, stressing that he loved life and lived it with joy.
Campbell was born in Pontypridd, Wales and joined Motörhead in 1984, initially alongside Würzel. When Würzel left in 1995, Campbell remained the band’s only guitarist for the next 20 years. He played on records such as «Orgasmatron», «1916» and «Bastards», until the end of Motörhead following the death of Lemmy Kilmister in December 2015. After the band, he formed Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons with his three sons and released the solo record «Old Lions Still Roar» in 2019.
See also
See also: Motörhead: 40 years of «Orgasmatron» and Phil Campbell’s resting place revealed.
Source: https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/celebrity-news/motrhead-guitarist-phil-campbells-heartbreaking-37727893.amp