Lemmy, lead singer of Motörhead, has died aged 70.
The band announced on their Facebook page earlier today [December 29, 2015].
“There is no easy way to say this…our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer. He had learnt of the disease on December 26th, and was at home, sitting in front of his favorite video game from The Rainbow which had recently made it’s way down the street, with his family.
“We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words.
“We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please…play Motörhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy’s music LOUD.
“Have a drink or few.
“Share stories.
“Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself.
“HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT.
“Ian ‘Lemmy’ Kilmister
1945 -2015
Born to lose, lived to win.”
The band have set up a Facebook tribute page where fans can leave condolences and share stories.
Meanwhile, Alice Cooper released the following statement:
“When we say ‘one of a kind’ in rock’n roll, Lemmy was the epitome of that – one of the most beloved characters in rock’n roll. I can’t think of anyone who didn’t adore Lemmy; you can’t say ‘heavy metal’ without mentioning Lemmy. If you’re a 13 year old kid learning to play bass, you want to play like Lemmy. He was one of a kind. And I will personally miss seeing him out on the road. We did many shows together and we looked forward to it every time we were touring with Motörhead. Rock’n roll heaven just got heavier.”
Lemmy was born Ian Fraser Kilmister on December 24, 1945. During the 1960s, he played in several bands – including The Rockin’ Vickers – and also worked as a roadie for the Jimi Hendrix Experience.
In 1972, he joined Hawkwind as bassist and vocalist, providing vocals on the band’s biggest UK chart single, “Silver Machine“, which reached No.3 in 1972.
He formed Motörhead in 1975 and was its only constant member. The band released 23 studio albums; their latest, Bad Magic, was released on August 28, 2015.
Earlier this year, the band had been forced to cancel dates on their 40th anniversary Tour due to Lemmy’s ill-health.
Phil Taylor, who was Motörhead’s drummer from 1976 to 1984 and again from 1987 to 1992, died on November 13, 2015.
Ex-guitarist “Fast” Eddie Clarke, who played with the group between 1976 and 1982, led tributes to Lemmy. He wrote on his Facebook page:
“I have just been told that Lemmy has passed away in LA.
Like Phil, he was like a brother to me. I am devastated.
We did so much together, the three of us.
The world seems a really empty place right now.
I am having trouble finding the words…
He will live on in our hearts. R.I.P Lemmy!”
Lemmy, you are one of the primary reasons this band exists. We're forever grateful for all of your inspiration. RIP pic.twitter.com/WC1csn5F5x
— Metallica (@Metallica) December 29, 2015
Lost one of my best friends, Lemmy, today. He will be sadly missed. He was a warrior and a legend. I will see you on the other side.
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) December 29, 2015
https://twitter.com/genesimmons/status/681648168975532034
Rest In Peace Lemmy. A hell of a man who suffered no fools. U shall be missed brother, and, THANK u 4 the years of unwavering kick ass R&R.
— Duff McKagan (@DuffMcKagan) December 29, 2015
Lemmy RIP….@myMotorhead my condolences to his family..
— Billy Idol (@BillyIdol) December 29, 2015
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