Guitarist John Sykes, Known for Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, Dies at 65

John Sykes, the acclaimed guitarist who played with iconic bands like Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at the age of 65. The news was announced on Sykes's official website, stating he succumbed to cancer after a courageous battle.

John Sykes

Sykes, a renowned musician with exceptional talent, was known for his kind and charismatic personality. His career began in the early 1980s with Tygers of Pan Tang, a prominent band in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal.

Career

He joined Thin Lizzy in 1982, contributing to their influential album "Thunder and Lightning." Subsequently, he joined Whitesnake, co-writing the hugely successful 1987 self-titled album.

Despite his significant contributions to these legendary bands, Sykes faced career setbacks, including a controversial departure from Whitesnake. He continued to pursue his musical passion, releasing solo albums and leading a touring version of Thin Lizzy.

Tributes have poured in from the music world, including David Coverdale, Whitesnake's lead singer.  "Just heard the shocking news of John's passing… My sincere condolences to his family, friends & fans…”

Sykes will be remembered as a talented musician and a kind-hearted individual who left an indelible mark on the world of rock music.

It is with great sorrow we share that John Sykes has passed away after a hard fought battle with cancer. He will be remembered by many as a man with exceptional musical talent but for those who didn’t know him personally, he was a thoughtful, kind, and charismatic man whose presence lit up the room.

He certainly marched to the beat of his own drum and always pulled for the underdog. In his final days, he spoke of his sincere love and gratitude for his fans who stuck by him through all these years. While the impact of his loss is profound and the mood somber, we hope the light of his memory will extinguish the shadow of his absence. - johnsykes.com

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