Iconic guitarist John Sykes, celebrated for his exceptional work with bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and his solo endeavors, has passed away at 65 after a courageous battle with cancer.
A statement released on Syke’s social media on Monday January 20, 2025, expressed deep sorrow: “It is with great sorrow we share that John Sykes has passed away after a hard-fought 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.”
The post highlighted Sykes’ love for his fans and his determination to always support the underdog, even in his final days, he expressed immense gratitude to those who stood by him throughout his career.

John Sykes, revered for his unique guitar skills, left an indelible mark on the music industry, he joined Thin Lizzy in 1983 and showcased his prowess on their album Thunder and Lightning.
Soon after, he became a driving force in Whitesnake, recording their self-titled 1987 album, which achieved multi-platinum status and earned widespread acclaim.
Sykes didn’t stop there. He founded the group Blue Murder, producing two albums and a live record before pursuing a successful solo career. His unmatched ability to blend technical precision with emotional depth made him one of the most respected guitarists of his time.
John Sykes’ contributions extended beyond his performances. Known for his fast alternate-picking style, pinch harmonics, and innovative techniques, he was recognized by Guitar World as one of the 100 greatest heavy metal guitarists in 2004. His signature sound influenced countless musicians.
In 2006, Sykes collaborated with Gibson to create the John Sykes Signature Les Pauls, modeled after his cherished 1978 Gibson Les Paul Custom. These guitars became a favorite among collectors and cemented his legacy in the guitar world.
Generations of rock fans have been inspired by Sykes’s music, which is full of passion and emotion, both fans and musicians have paid tribute to Sykes, praising his extraordinary talent and kind nature.
John Sykes’s cause of death
Died after a courageous battle with cancer, according to a social media post announcing his death.