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Legendary bassist, singer and leader of iconic heavy metal group Motorhead, Lemmy Kilmister has passed away. According to an official statement from the band, Kilmister found out several days ago that he was suffering from an extremely aggressive type of cancer.
Lemmy was one of the most influential musicians of the last century, putting together a hard-rocking, uncompromising career of over five decades.
He had been having a variety of health problems over the course of the year, which is no surprise given the fact that he lived the rock’n’roll lifestyle for decades, but continued to tour the world playing to rock fans everywhere.
Of course, just about every rock musician, old and new, has paid respects to Lemmy in some way on social media today, from longtime friend and collaborator Ozzy Osbourne to contemporary rockers influenced by his style like Nickleback.
RIP Lemmy. Everything louder than everything else. Forever. – MK pic.twitter.com/tgAeejMSJZ
— Nickelback (@Nickelback) December 29, 2015
I was 16 when I bought this album. Thank you for your friendship and the inspiration. RIP #lemmykilmister #Legend pic.twitter.com/dRjb4yYGfO
— Dave Lombardo (@TheDaveLombardo) December 29, 2015
He lived a life of dreams and he went out on top. He was Motörhead and HE PLAYED ROCK & ROLL!!! https://t.co/7wZXgBksq6
— Scott Ian (@Scott_Ian) December 29, 2015
Lost one of my best friends, Lemmy, today. He will be sadly missed. He was a warrior and a legend. I will see you on the other side.
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) December 29, 2015
Lemmy, you are one of the primary reasons this band exists. We’re forever grateful for all of your inspiration. RIP pic.twitter.com/WC1csn5F5x
— Metallica (@Metallica) December 29, 2015