Phil Taylor, former drummer for iconic heavy metal band Motorhead, died Wednesday after a long bout of illness, former bandmate “Fast” Eddie Clarke posted on Facebook Thursday.
“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,” Clarke wrote.
The guitarist added, “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 (pictured above center), known for the nickname “Philthy Animal,” initially played with Motorhead from 1975 to 1984, rejoining the group in 1987 and continuing on with them until 1992. In addition to recording 10 studio albums with the group, Taylor played on the 1981 live album “No Sleep ’til Hammersmith.”
Born in 1964 in Hasland, Chesterfield, England, Taylor replaced original Motorhead drummer Lucas Fox in 1975.
After exiting Motorhead for the second time, Taylor performed with lesser-known acts including The Web of Spider, Overkill, and Mick Farren and the Deviants.