John Sykes dead aged 65: Iconic ex-Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake guitarist dies after battle with cancer

At the age of 65, legendary rock star John Sykes passed away.

Following a fight with cancer, the guitarist for Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and Sykes passed away.

His social media accounts posted the following statement: “We all mourn the loss of John Sykes, who fought a valiant fight against cancer.

Many people will remember him as a man with extraordinary musical ability, but to others who did not know him personally, he was a kind, considerate, and vivacious individual whose presence brightened the space.

“He always sided with the underdog and undoubtedly marched to his own drum beat.

“He expressed his genuine love and appreciation for his supporters who had supported him throughout the years in his last days.

“While the impact of his loss is profound and the mood somber, we hope the light of his memory will extinguish the shadow of his absence.”

Before being a member of Whitesnake and contributing to two albums, starting with Slide It In in 1984, Sykes was featured on Thin Lizzy’s 1983 Top 5 album Thunder and Lightning.