The British guitarist John Sykes passed away at the age of 65 after a battle with cancer. Born in Reading, Berkshire, England in 1959, the musician was known for having been a member of bands like Tygers of Pan Tang, Whitesnake, Blue Murder and Thin Lizzy.
As the news of his death was released many famous rock stars paid their tribute to Sykes.
Rock stars reaction to John Sykes’ death
David Coverdale (Whitesnake)
“Just heard the shocking news of John’s passing…My sincere condolences to his family, friends & fans,” he said.
Steve Stevens (Billy Idol)
“Hearing that John Sykes has passed. Man, his work on the 1987 Whitesnake album was just incredible. You’ve got 12 year old kids on YouTube still learning his stuff. This is just so sad,” Steve Stevens said.
Marty Friedman (Ex-Megadeth)
“Very sad to hear of John Sykes passing. His work with Tygers of Pan Tang was by far my favorite of the NWOBHM. A wonderful guitarist,” Marty Friedman said.
Thin Lizzy
“John Sykes, has passed away aged 65 after battling with cancer. He was with Lizzy for the Thunder and Lightning album and tour bringing a harder edge to their sound. He always sounded fantastic and looked cool on stage. He stayed with the band until the end, a perfect fit with Phil, Scott, Brian and Darren. He joined Whitesnake after, a perfect foil for David Coverdale.
Our respect and thoughts to his family and friends and a massive thank you for being a part of the Thin Lizzy story and history. Please play T&L today and play it loud. John Sykes 29 July 1959 – January 2025,” the band said.
Glenn Hughes (Ex-Deep Purple and Black Sabbath)
“There are no words to describe how I feel about John’s guitar playing. He was absolutely a phenomenon.”
“Here’s a song that we wrote together called “Heaven’s Missing An Angel”. What an amazing solo on this song & Honored to have John join me on vocals. RIP Dear one. The angel is now in heaven, Love you ,” Glenn Hughes said.
Winger
“R.I.P. #JohnSykes. A huge talent and huge influence.”
