Lemmy Kilmister, the lead singer of the heavy metal band Motörhead, died of a recently discovered cancer on Monday, according to an announcement on his band’s Facebook page. He was 70.
“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,” a post on the Official Motörhead page said.
Born Ian Fraser Kilmister in England, but universally referred to by his “Lemmy” moniker, he was the frontman, principal writer and only constant member of the iconic band which sold 30 million records worldwide.
“He had learnt of the disease on December 26th, and was at home, sitting in front of his favorite video game from The Rainbow … with his family,” the band said.
Despite the suddenness of the death, Lemmy had been public about a number of recent health issues, fueled by decades of hard living, including hematoma and an irregular heartbeat that had led to his body being implanted with a defibrillator.
Motörhead recorded 20 studio albums, the most famous including “Ace of Spades” and “Orgasmatron,” and won one Grammy award, for a cover of “Whiplash” from a tribute album for Metallica, ironically a band on which Motörhead was a huge influence.
PHOTOS: Lemmy of Motorhead dies
And while the group was more of a cult favorite than a mass success in the U.S., it was hugely popular in Britain and tributes poured in Monday from a generation of musicians.
“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,” tweeted Ozzy Osbourne.
According to the website Consequence of Sound, the death was first reported by radio and TV host Eddie Trunk.
The band’s Facebook page called for tributes in Lemmy’s spirit.
“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.”
• Victor Morton can be reached at vmorton@washingtontimes.com.
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