Australia-based label Golden Robot Records is preparing to release “Believe In Yourself“, the second posthumous single from the legendary late English guitarist John Sykes (known for his tenure with Tygers Of Pan Tang, Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Blue Murder, and his eponymous solo project, Sykes). The track will officially arrive on June 12 and is currently available to pre-save across all major streaming platforms.
The upcoming single offers another glimpse into a planned posthumous EP, which features some of the final known recordings from the revered musician. Sykes passed away at the age of 65 in January 2025 following a battle with cancer.
Describing the new track, Golden Robot Records stated that “Believe In Yourself” “captures everything fans have long admired about Sykes‘ artistry — soaring vocals, electrifying guitar work, and a deeply personal lyrical message delivered with passion and conviction. The single stands as both a triumphant celebration of his enduring creative spirit and a heartfelt farewell to a musician whose influence shaped generations of rock and metal artists and continues to do so.”
The rollout of this new music has not been without controversy. In February, following the release of the first posthumous single, “My Guitar“, Sykes‘ family issued a public statement condemning Golden Robot Records.
They wrote at the time: “In response to this year’s recent press release from Golden Robot Records, we feel it is necessary to issue a statement on behalf of the estate of John Sykes.”
“In 2019, John Sykes parted ways with Golden Robot Records following ongoing issues relating to contractual agreements. Since that time neither John Sykes nor his estate has authorised, entered into, or agreed to any arrangement with Golden Robot Records for his unfinished material to be mastered, released or distributed under their label.”
“Given these circumstances, we are deeply concerned by the decision to proceed with such actions at a time when John is no longer able to represent or defend his own position. It is also notable that in the years following John’s departure from the label, no public announcements or attempts were made to release this material while he was alive.”
“In our view these actions raise serious questions and feel profoundly disrespectful to John’s legacy and to his immediate family, who are continuing to grieve and come to terms with the loss of a father, brother, and son.”
Sykes had previously announced in 2020 that he had parted ways with Golden Robot Records without ever issuing an album through the company.
Despite the heavy pushback from the estate, the label has defended its actions and plans for the upcoming EP, releasing a comprehensive statement to address the situation:
“In light of recent speculation surrounding this release, Golden Robot Records wishes to assure fans that this music is being released with the utmost respect, care, and affection for John. The release of ‘My Guitar’ is fully permitted under John‘s recording agreement, and reflects the shared intention, held while he was with us, to complete and present this material properly. This is not a retrospective reconstruction, but a continuation of work that John himself began with us.”
“Serving as the first glimpse into a four-track EP, ‘My Guitar’ offers fans an intimate connection to John‘s creative voice in its purest form,” the label added. “The EP, worked on during his time with Golden Robot Records, will be respectfully released later in 2026, with a clear focus on preserving the integrity of his original vision and honoring his legacy.”
“Best known for his iconic work with Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Blue Murder, and his celebrated solo career, John Sykes left an indelible mark on hard rock and heavy music worldwide. ‘My Guitar’ stands as both a tribute and a testament — an artist speaking directly through his instrument one final time.”
“For Golden Robot Records, this release is about honoring John, completing what we started together, and sharing his music with the fans who loved him. It is wrapped in respect, gratitude, and deep admiration for an extraordinary musician.”
“For fans old and new, this is more than a song — it is a moment, a memory, and a final salute to a true guitar legend.”
