Ex-Motörhead Drummer Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor Passes Away

Some very sad news from the Motörhead camp this evening: ex-drummer Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor has passed away at the age of 61. 

The band’s former guitarist Eddie Clarke broke the news through his Facebook page earlier today – the cause of death is still unconfirmed. Taylor spent two stints with the metal legends between 1975-1984 and again between 1987-1992, which saw him record albums like Ace Of Spades and the live album No Sleep ‘Til Hammersmith.

Clarke released the following statement, “My dear friend and brother passed away last night. He had been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes. I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character. Fortunately we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in Peace, Phil!”

Check out this live footage of Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor drumming with the band:

Kerrang! would like to send our best wishes to Phil’s family, friends and former bandmates at this time.