Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor, who played drums on Motörhead’s early catalogue, sadly passed away on Wednesday 11th November at the age of 61.

“Fast” Eddie Clarke posted the following tribute:

“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!”

Taylor was born in Hasland, England, in 1954. He joined the legendary Motörhead in 1975, and played drums on some of the band’s most iconic albums, including “Overkill“, “Bomber” and “The Ace of Spades“. He left the band in 1984 and rejoined in 1987 after what he called a “vacation”, until they parted ways again in 1992 during the recording of March ör Die. After leaving Motörhead, Taylor played with Web of Spider and with the Deviants. He also worked on a project with former W.A.S.P. guitarist Chris Holmes.

Motörhead posted a touching tribute to the drummer on Facebook:

“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.”

Amen to that. It’s always so heartbreaking when a metal legend dies. Thanks for the tunes, man.

With love,

Amanda