Guitarist John Sykes, known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at 65-years-old. His passing reportedly comes following a battle with cancer. “He will be remembered by many as a man with exceptional musical talent but for those who didn't know him personally, he was a thoughtful, kind and charismatic man whose presence lit up the room. He certainly marched to the beat of his own drum and always pulled for the underdog,” an official statement shared on Sykes’ social media. Sykes played a big role in Thin Lizzy's “Thunder and Lightning,” album and co-wrote a lot of Whitesnake's eight-times platinum self-titled 1987 release. He also released five solo albums. Whitesnake’s David Coverdale shared his condolences on social media, saying “Just heard the shocking news of John’s passing…My sincere condolences to his family, friends & fans.” You can view the statement on John Sykes’ social media on the right, as well as David Coverdale’s tribute to Sykes.
Check out the posts from Glenn Hughes' official Instagram here, Slash's official Instagram here, Whitesnake's David Coverdale here, and from Syke's official Instagram here.