Former Motorhead drummer Phil ‘Philty Animal’ Taylor has died aged 61. He was one of the founders of the band in 1975 and played with them up until 1984, before later rejoining them in 1987-1992.
The last time that Phil played alongside frontman Lemmy came in 2014 when he joined the band for a gig in Birmingham. On Wednesday evening November 11th Phil Taylor passed away aged 61, with the news being confirmed by his former bandmate ‘Fast’ Eddie Clark.
The statement from Clark read: “My dear friend and brother passed away last night. He had been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes. 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!”
Motorhead themselves also made a statement regarding Phil Taylor’s death saying “Lil’ Philthy…he who once shouted ‘stop wincing about’ on an album…he who fueled many a young boy’s punk/metal hairstyles…he who played the drums with fury and intent…he who liked to call people ‘wazzocks’ once in a while…friend, Roman, Derbyshireman…rest in peace…with much love…”
You can check out a video of Phil Taylor’s last appearance with Motorhead in 2014 down below.
Photo Credit: kris krug
