Unfortunate news for Motörhead fans today, as the band’s legendary frontman Lemmy Kilmister has passed away at the age of 70. Kilmister was suffering from a number of medical conditions in recent years, and reports indicate that the cause of death was cancer. RIP Lemmy.

The news was reported by TV personality Eddie Trunk, and several of Kilmister’s companions have released messages eulogizing the singer. “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,” tweeted Ozzy Osbourne. “Lemmy, you are one of the primary reasons this band exists. We’re forever grateful for all of your inspiration. RIP,” Metallica proclaimed.

Kilmister remained the solid foundation of Motörhead, the only member to stick with the band from their formation in 1975. Motorhead remained a prolific force of rock music, releasing twenty albums and selling over 300 million copies.

It’s no secret that Kilmister had a taste for drugs and alcohol, which helped propel the band to rock star status throughout the seventies and eighties. They were more popular in the UK than the US, but still were well-received within the States.

Motörhead remains an influential group to hard rock and metal bands worldwide. Kilmister, you will be missed. RIP.

Official Statement from Motörhead:

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.