Phil Taylor – the drummer best known for his time with the influential metal band Motörhead – has passed away at the of 61.
Former bandmate Eddie Clarke made the announcement on his Facebook page moments ago:
“He has been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes,” Clarke wrote.
“I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character. Fortunately we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in Peace, Phil!”
Clarke and Taylor – who was affectionately referred to by fans as “Philthy Animal” – played together in two iterations of the iconic British band fronted by rock legend Lemmy Kilmister.
Almost as well known for his classically rock star-like behavior as for his drumming, Taylor was arrested or seriously injured on numerous occasions during his time with Motörhead.
He can be seen sporting a neck brace in the music video for the band’s best-known song, “Ace of Spades.”
Taylor’s death was erroneously reported several times over the years, a fact that he joked about in a 2005 documentary.
Taylor’s final public appearance came last year when he joined Kilmister on stage at a concert in Brmingham, England.
