Tributes Pour in for Legendary Guitarist John Sykes, Formerly of Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy

Tributes Pour in for Legendary Guitarist John Sykes, Formerly of Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy

 

The rock music world is mourning the loss of John Sykes, the influential guitarist who played with iconic bands like Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy. Sykes passed away on January 12, 2023, at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable riffs, solos, and songs.

 

Born on July 29, 1959, in Reading, England, Sykes began his music career in the late 1970s, playing with various local bands. His big break came in 1982 when he joined Thin Lizzy, one of the most successful and influential rock bands of the time. Sykes played on Thin Lizzy’s final studio album, “Thunder and Lightning,” and toured with the band until their eventual disbandment in 1983.

 

In 1983, Sykes joined Whitesnake, the hard rock band founded by former Deep Purple vocalist David Coverdale. Sykes’ tenure with Whitesnake was marked by incredible success, with the band releasing several platinum-selling albums, including “Slide It In” (1984) and “1987” (1987). Sykes’ guitar work on these albums, particularly on hits like “Still of the Night,” “Here I Go Again,” and “Is This Love,” helped shape the sound of 80s rock and earned him a reputation as one of the era’s top guitarists.

 

Sykes left Whitesnake in 1987, citing creative differences with Coverdale. He went on to pursue a solo career, releasing several albums, including “Out of My Tree” (1995) and “Loveland” (1997). Sykes also collaborated with other notable musicians, such as Blue Murder, a band he formed with vocalist John West and drummer Carmine Appice.

 

Throughout his career, Sykes was known for his exceptional guitar playing, which blended elements of hard rock, blues, and neoclassical music. His unique tone, phrasing, and technique influenced a generation of guitarists, including icons like Steve Vai and Joe Bonamassa.

 

News of Sykes’ passing sent shockwaves through the rock music community, with tributes pouring in from fans, friends, and fellow musicians. David Coverdale, Sykes’ former bandmate in Whitesnake, took to social media to express his sadness and gratitude for the time they spent together in the band.

 

“I’m devastated to hear of John Sykes’ passing,” Coverdale wrote. “We had our ups and downs, but John was a magnificent guitarist and a vital part of Whitesnake’s success during the 80s. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.”

 

Thin Lizzy’s Ricky Warwick also paid tribute to Sykes, saying, “John was an incredible guitarist and a true gentleman. I had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him on several occasions, and he always blew me away with his playing. He will be deeply missed.”

 

As the rock music world continues to mourn the loss of John Sykes, fans and fellow musicians alike are celebrating his remarkable legacy and the indelible mark he left on the music world.

 

_RIP John Sykes (1959-2023)_

 

_Key Discography:_

 

– Thin Lizzy – “Thunder and Lightning” (1983)

– Whitesnake – “Slide It In” (1984)

– Whitesnake – “1987” (1987)

– John Sykes – “Out of My Tree” (1995)

– John Sykes – “Loveland” (1997)

 

_Influential Songs:_

 

– “Still of the Night” (Whitesnake)

– “Here I Go Again” (Whitesnake)

– “Is This Love” (Whitesnake)

– “Thunder and Lightning” (Thin Lizzy)

– “Cold Sweat” (Thin Lizzy)