Motörhead was formed in 1975 in London by Lemmy Kilmister. As we all know and love Motörhead is known for its loud, fast-paced, and rugged rock and roll style, which greatly influenced the heavy metal genre. Just dont play Motörhead for your mama, or then again maybe your mama is cooler than you…… Over its 40-year career, Motörhead released 22 studio albums, 10 live recordings, 12 compilation albums, and 5 EPs. Despite several lineup changes and the death of key member Lemmy in 2015, the band’s music continues to resonate. Motörhead’s contributions to music include hits like “Ace of Spades” and albums like Overkill. They achieved considerable chart success and were awarded a Grammy in 2005 for Best Metal Performance.
Lemmy Kilmister
Lemmy Kilmister founded Motörhead in 1975 and remained with the band until his death in 2015. As the lead vocalist, bassist, and primary songwriter, Lemmy was the only constant member of the band. He first joined the space rock band Hawkwind in 1971 as a bassist, but after being fired, he formed Motörhead. Lemmy’s gritty vocals and thunderous bass playing were signature elements on all Motörhead albums, from their debut Motörhead in 1977 to Bad Magic in 2015. Outside of Motörhead, Lemmy collaborated with artists such as Ozzy Osbourne and Dave Grohl and made cameo appearances in film and television, showcasing his iconic status in the rock and metal community.
Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor
Phil Taylor, known as “Philthy Animal,” was the drummer for Motörhead from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1987 to 1992. He first joined the band shortly after its formation, contributing to their first album, Motörhead, and played a crucial role in their seminal albums like Overkill, Bomber, and Ace of Spades. Taylor’s drumming style was pivotal in shaping the band’s fast-paced and aggressive sound. After leaving Motörhead, he worked with various artists and bands but never matched the same level of success he achieved with Motörhead.
“Fast” Eddie Clarke
“Fast” Eddie Clarke, the guitarist from 1976 until 1982, was part of Motörhead’s classic lineup alongside Lemmy and Phil Taylor. Clarke’s raw guitar riffs and solos were integral to the band’s albums Overkill, Bomber, and Ace of Spades. After leaving Motörhead, he formed the band Fastway in the early ’80s, which saw moderate success, especially in the United States with albums like Fastway and All Fired Up. Clarke’s career outside Motörhead highlighted his adaptable and potent guitar skills in both hard rock and heavy metal contexts.
Mikkey Dee
Mikkey Dee joined Motörhead in 1992 as the drummer and remained until the band’s dissolution in 2015. Before joining Motörhead, Dee was a member of King Diamond, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation as a powerful and technically skilled drummer. His debut with Motörhead was on the album Bastards, and he contributed to all subsequent albums, including Inferno and Motörizer. Dee’s drumming brought a new level of intensity and precision to the band’s sound. Following his time with Motörhead, Mikkey Dee joined Scorpions, further establishing himself as a prominent figure in rock and metal drumming.
Phil Campbell
Phil Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984 as a guitarist and continued with the band until its end in 2015. He was part of the lineup that released Orgasmatron in 1986 and played on every Motörhead album thereafter, including 1916 and Sacrifice. His guitar work is noted for its melodic inventiveness and technical prowess. Outside of his time with Motörhead, Campbell formed Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, featuring his own children, which allowed him to explore different musical styles and personal themes, furthering his career in the music industry.
Larry Wallis
Larry Wallis served as the guitarist and provided backing and occasional lead vocals for Motörhead from 1975 to 1976. He was part of the very early formation of the band but left before their first album was released. Before joining Motörhead, Wallis played with UFO and Pink Fairies, which contributed to his gritty and forceful guitar style. After his departure, he continued to work in the music industry, producing records and occasionally performing live until his passing in 2019.
Lucas Fox
Lucas Fox was the original drummer for Motörhead, playing with the band in 1975. His tenure was short-lived, as he was replaced by Phil Taylor later that same year. Despite his brief period with Motörhead, Fox’s early contributions helped lay the groundwork for the band’s aggressive sound. Following his departure, he continued to play in various bands, contributing to the music scene in different capacities.
Brian “Robbo” Robertson
Brian “Robbo” Robertson, known for his work with Thin Lizzy, joined Motörhead in 1982 as the guitarist and backing vocalist. He played on the Another Perfect Day album released in 1983. His style brought a more melodic edge to the band’s sound, which marked a distinct shift from their usual heavy metal style. Despite his technical proficiency, his tenure with the band was brief, ending in 1983 due to musical differences.
Michael “Würzel” Burston
Michael “Würzel” Burston played guitars and provided backing vocals for Motörhead from 1984 to 1995. His time in the band saw the release of several albums including Orgasmatron, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Bastards. Würzel’s playing style contributed significantly to the band’s sound during a period of revival and sustained success. After leaving Motörhead, he continued to play music but remained relatively low-key until his death in 2011.
Pete Gill
Pete Gill was the drummer for Motörhead from 1984 to 1987. He joined the band after his stint with Saxon, another heavy metal band. Gill’s drumming is featured on the albums Orgasmatron and Rock ‘n’ Roll. His powerful and precise drumming style was a good fit for Motörhead during his tenure. After leaving the band, Gill stayed out of the public eye, focusing on personal projects and stepping away from the major music scene.
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