Former Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell died of multi-organ failure following complications after a series of operations, an inquest in London has heard.
Campbell died on March 13 at the age of 64. The findings were presented on Friday, October 2, at St Pancras Coroner’s Court, as reported by the Mirror.
According to the inquest, Campbell received two liver transplants at London’s Royal Free Hospital earlier this year. The second transplant was reported to have been successful, but he later developed further complications and underwent bowel surgery before being moved to intensive care. His condition then worsened quickly, leading to multi-organ failure. The inquest also heard that he had been sober for seven years.
Coroner Dr. Richard Brittain said: “My view is that there is nothing here to suggest his death could have been prevented.”
Campbell‘s family announced his death in March, explaining that he had spent 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”, adding: “He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be missed immensely. His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever. We kindly ask that our family’s privacy is respected during this incredibly difficult time.”
A statement shared on Motörhead‘s official channels at the time read: “Phil was a wonderful guitarist, writer, performer, and musician who had Motörhead in his veins.”
“He always led with his gift of guitar, and carried a great sense of humor, but most of all, Phil led with his heart. You could not be around him without a chuckle or 20, because quite simply, Phil loved life and lived it with great joy.”
“There will be plenty of time for us to share stories — tales of Campbell glory — and some good jokes together; for now, please send love and positive energy to Gaynor and the boys while affording them time, space, and privacy.”
“Much love and RIP Phil. The world has just lost an enormous beam of light, and we are devastated.”
Born in Pontypridd, Wales, Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984, initially playing alongside fellow guitarist Würzel. After Würzel left in 1995, Campbell remained the band’s only guitarist for the next 20 years. He played on albums including Orgasmatron, 1916 and Bastards, and stayed with the band until it ended following the death of Lemmy Kilmister in December 2015.
After Motörhead, Campbell formed Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons with his three sons, and also released a solo album, Old Lions Still Roar, in 2019.
