Guitarist John Sykes Passes Away at Age 65

John Sykes, the legendary English rock guitarist renowned for his work with bands such as Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and Blue Murder, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the age of 65, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on July 29, 1959, in Reading, Berkshire, England, Sykes began his musical journey at the age of 14, inspired by his uncle’s guitar playing. He first gained prominence in 1980 with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal band Tygers of Pan Tang, contributing to their albums Spellbound and Crazy Nights.

In 1982, Sykes joined Thin Lizzy, playing on their acclaimed Thunder and Lightning album. Following the band’s disbandment in 1983, he became a pivotal member of Whitesnake, co-writing and performing on their monumental 1987 self-titled album, which achieved multi-platinum success. His soaring guitar work on songs like “Still of the Night” and “Here I Go Again” left an indelible mark on rock music and captured the imagination of fans worldwide.

My first exposure to John’s immense talent was through that very Whitesnake 1987 album—a masterclass in hard rock brilliance that would lead me to explore his earlier time with Thin Lizzy and the equally awe-inspiring first Blue Murder album. Each phase of his career showcased his remarkable ability to blend melodic finesse with unrelenting power, creating timeless music that continues to resonate with fans across generations.

After departing from Whitesnake, Sykes formed Blue Murder in 1987, releasing their self-titled debut album in 1989. Despite limited commercial success at the time, the album has since garnered a cult following, with its intricate compositions and Sykes’ electrifying performances standing as a testament to his artistry.

Throughout his career, Sykes was celebrated for his exceptional guitar skills, characterized by fast alternate picking, wide fret-hand vibrato, and melodic sensibilities. He cited influences such as Jimmy Page, Ritchie Blackmore, and Gary Moore, and was included in Guitar World’s list of the “100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time” in 2004.

Beyond his musical achievements, Sykes was known for his thoughtfulness, kindness, and charisma. In his final days, he expressed sincere love and gratitude for his fans who supported him throughout his career.

John Sykes is survived by his three sons: James, John Jr., and Sean. His profound impact on the rock music world and his enduring legacy will continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

RIP John Sykes, and thank you for the music.