The musician was at risk of cancer and his death was confirmed through an official statement
John Sykes, famous British guitarist and composer, died this Monday (20th), aged 65, after facing a long battle with cancer. The news was confirmed through a post on his official Instagram account. “It is with great sadness that we share the news that John Sykes has passed away after a tough battle with cancer. He will be remembered by many as a man with exceptional musical talent, but for those who did not know him personally, he was a caring, man kind and charismatic, whose presence lit up the room,” the statement read.
Recognized for his technical prowess and astonishing sound, Sykes was included in Guitar World magazine’s list of the “100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time” in 2004. His career included stints with iconic bands such as Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy and Blue Murder, as well as collaborations that have left profound marks in the history of rock.
From Pan Tang’s Tygers to Thin Lizzy
Sykes began his career in 1980, joining the British new wave heavy metal band Tygers of Pan Tang. During his short stint, he contributed to the albums “Spellbound” and “Crazy Nights”, which solidified his reputation as a promising young guitarist. However, it was when he joined Thin Lizzy in 1982 that his name began to gain international prominence.
In Thin Lizzy, Sykes participated in the album “Thunder and Lightning” (1983), the band’s last studio work before its dissolution. Acclaimed for his energy and technique, he brought a new dynamic to the group, being a key part of the tours that marked the end of Thin Lizzy in the 1980s.
Growing up with Whitesnake and global success
Sykes joined Whitesnake after Thin Lizzy disbanded, being part of the lineup that performed at Rock in Rio in 1985. During his tenure, he contributed significantly to the group’s most successful album, the self-titled “Whitesnake” ( 1987), known as “1987” in some countries. The album, which featured hits like “Here I Go Again” and “Is This Love,” became a global phenomenon. Although David Coverdale fired the entire band before release, Sykes’ nine compositions and his guitar playing were instrumental in shaping the sound that made Whitesnake one of hard rock’s greats.
Latest band and solo career
After leaving Whitesnake, Sykes formed Blue Murder in 1988, a band that combined elements of hard rock and heavy metal. He took on not only the role of guitarist, but also that of lead singer, standing out for his technical and melodic style. The band’s first self-titled album was released in 1989, produced by Bob Rock. The album contained major tracks such as “Valley of the Kings” and “Jelly Roll”, receiving praise for Sykes’ musicianship and virtuosity.
Alongside renowned musicians such as bassist Tony Franklin (ex-The Firm) and drummer Carmine Appice (ex-Vanilla Fudge and Ozzy Osbourne), Blue Murder won a loyal audience, although they did not achieve the same commercial success as their previous works. Sykes continued with the band in various lineups into the 1990s, releasing two more albums: “Nothin’ But Trouble” (1993) and the acoustic “Screaming Blue Murder: Dedicated to Phil Lynott” (1994), the latter in honor of the late Thin Lizzy leader.
Subsequently, he released solo albums such as “Out of My Tree” (1995) and “Nuclear Cowboy” (2000). He continued to perform and compose until the last years of his life, maintaining a loyal fan base. His innovative approach to the use of effects and his technical skill have influenced generations of guitarists.
In his final days, according to the official statement, Sykes expressed gratitude to the fans who accompanied him throughout his journey. “In his final days, he spoke of his sincere love and gratitude for his fans who had been by his side all these years,” the death note highlighted.
Source: Terra

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.