Guitarist John Sykes from rock bands Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake dies at 65

John Sykes, celebrated guitarist of iconic rock bands Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, died at the age of 65 following a courageous battle with cancer.

A statement, describing Sykes as “an exceptional musical talent” and a “thoughtful, kind, and charismatic man whose presence lit up every room", confirmed his passing away.

Born on July 29, 1959, in Reading, Berkshire, Sykes spent part of his childhood in Ibiza before returning to England. As a teenager, he became enthralled with the guitar, drawing inspiration from legends such as Jimmy Page and Ritchie Blackmore.

He joined his first band, Streetfighter, after his family relocated to Blackpool. Sykes’ early career included a stint with the metal band Tygers of Pan Tang. In 1982, he left to join Thin Lizzy, contributing to the band’s shift towards a heavier sound. He played on their final album, Thunder and Lightning (1983), before the group disbanded following frontman Phil Lynott’s death in 1986.

Sykes’ next major chapter began when Coverdale recruited him for Whitesnake. He debuted on their 1984 album Slide It In, which gained traction in the US. He also played on their self-titled 1987 album, which further refined their arena-rock sound.

However, creative and personal tensions between Sykes and Coverdale led to the firing of the entire band. Sykes later described the fallout, saying, “David said nothing to any of us … I went to confront him, but he literally ran away.”

After Whitesnake, Sykes formed Blue Murder with Tony Franklin and Carmine Appice, releasing a self-titled debut in 1989. Despite critical praise, commercial success proved elusive. Following the group’s dissolution, Sykes pursued a solo career, releasing four studio albums.

Carmine Appice paid tribute, saying, “I loved him like a brother.”

Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale called the news “shocking” in an Instagram post, while Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash also paid tribute on social media.

Sykes’ impact on rock music remains indelible, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking riffs and a sound that defined an era.