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Phil CampbellGuitarist of the band 'Motohead'
Date of Birth: 07.05.1961
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Phil Campbell: The Welsh Guitarist of Motörhead
- Musical Beginnings
- Founding Persian Risk and Joining Motörhead
- Motörhead Success and Endorsements
- Guitar Gear and Legacy
- Recognition and Personal Life
Phil Campbell: The Welsh Guitarist of Motörhead
Early Life and InspirationsPhil Anthony Campbell was born on May 7, 1961, in Pontypridd, Wales. At the tender age of 10, he first picked up a guitar. His musical heroes included Jimi Hendrix, Tony Iommi, Jimmy Page, Michael Schenker, and Todd Rundgren. At 12, Campbell attended a Hawkwind concert, where he met and secured the autograph of Lemmy (Ian Fraser Kilmister), the future founder of Motörhead.
Musical Beginnings
By 13, Campbell was playing semi-professionally with a band called Contrast. He later joined Roktopus, a pub rock outfit from South Wales. In 1978, he purchased his first Gibson Les Paul guitar, but it was stolen along with several other instruments over the years.
Founding Persian Risk and Joining Motörhead
In 1979, Campbell formed his own heavy metal band, Persian Risk. The group released singles in 1981 and 1983. In 1984, Motörhead held auditions after the departure of Brian Robertson. Lemmy auditioned Campbell and Würzel (Michael Burston), and impressed by their chemistry, hired them both as guitarists.
Motörhead Success and Endorsements
With Campbell on board, Motörhead recorded a track for the hit British sitcom "The Young Ones" in 1984. The band's compilation album "No Remorse" (1984) was a commercial success. Campbell embarked on a worldwide tour with Motörhead, and has remained a permanent member ever since.
Guitar Gear and Legacy
Campbell exclusively plays LAG guitars, praising their exceptional tone. He also uses a Minarik Inferno Guitar on stage. Previously, he has played Parker Nitefly, Claymore, Kramer, ESP, and PRS guitars. Like Lemmy, Campbell uses Marshall Amplifiers and Line 6 amps.
Recognition and Personal Life
In 2003, Campbell was named one of "100 Welsh Heroes." When asked what he would have been if not a musician, Campbell replied confidently: "a women's shoe salesman."
