Sad news has hit the music world as John Sykes, the iconic guitarist for Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and more, has passed away at the age of 65.
Sykes lost his battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of incredible music and cherished memories.
A Life of Music and Passion
Sykes’ music career spanned decades, beginning with the band The Tygers of Pan Tang in 1980.
He then auditioned for Thin Lizzy, joining the band for their farewell tour and playing on the last two albums, Thunder and Lightning and Life.
His talents didn’t go unnoticed, and he soon became a member of Whitesnake, founded by David Coverdale. Sykes co-wrote some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Still of the Night” and “Is this Love”.
Tributes Pour In
David Coverdale took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute to Sykes, saying “Just heard the shocking news of John’s passing … My sincere condolences to his family, friends & fans …”.
Carmine Appice, drummer for Blue Murder, also shared a touching message on Facebook, remembering Sykes as an “amazing guitarist” and a brother-like figure.
“We played such great music and had such great times together,” he wrote.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite his untimely passing, Sykes’ music and memory will live on. His family and friends remember him as a kind, charismatic, and talented individual who “marched to the beat of his own drum” and always supported the underdog.
As his verified social media accounts shared, “He certainly spoke of his sincere love and gratitude for his fans who stuck by him through all these years.”
Sykes’ legacy will continue to inspire and influence new generations of music lovers, and his contributions to the rock music world will never be forgotten.