by Emma Baker on the
Motörhead’s Lemmy Kilmister has died, aged 70.
Legendary frontman Lemmy has died suddenly following “a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer”, his bandmates confirm.
Publishing the sad news on Facebook earlier this morning (29th Dec 2015) Motörhead members have urged fans to “play Lemmy’s music LOUD” and “have a drink or few”.
The statement read: “There is no easy way to say this… our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer.”
Having been diagnosed with cancer on Boxing Day (26th Dec 2015), the statement continued: “We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words.”
“We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please…play Motörhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy’s music LOUD. Have a drink or few. Share stories. Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself.”
“HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT.”
Friend and fellow heavy metaller Ozzy Osbourne has already taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the ‘Ace Of Spades’ singer.
Lost one of my best friends, Lemmy, today. He will be sadly missed. He was a warrior and a legend. I will see you on the other side.
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) December 29, 2015
Born on the 24th Dec 1945, Lemmy will be remembered for his gruffly vocals, his contribution to the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, and his long-standing love of Jack Daniels.
The hard-living singer has suffered from various medical issues in recent years, having been fitted with a pacemaker in 2013 and suffering a haematoma in 2014.
In September, the vocalist cut a set short in Austin, Texas, after experiencing further health issues.
However, in recent months, Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister had cut back on his use of cigarettes and alcohol, on medical advice.
The band were due to perform at Download Festival in 2016, alongside headliners Rammstein, Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden.