Eddie Clarke, guitarist of Motörhead, passed away on Wednesday. Known as “Fast Eddie,” Clarke, 67, was the last surviving member of the band’s classic line up, which also included drummer Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor, who died in November 2015, and frontman Lemmy, who died one month later.
Clarke died after suffering from pneumonia. The band revealed the news on Facebook, writing that Clarke “passed away peacefully” in a hospital.
The band’s current drummer, Mikkey Dee, was shocked by the “terrible news” and wrote: “Me and Eddie always hit it off great. I was looking forward to seeing him in the UK this summer when we come around with the Scorps…Now Lem and Philthy can jam with Eddie again, and if you listen carefully I’m sure you’ll hear them, so watch out!!! My thoughts go out to Eddie’s family and close ones.”
Current guitarist Phil Campbell added: “Just heard the sad news that Fast Eddie Clarke has passed away. Such a shock. He will be remembered for his iconic riffs and was a true rock n roller. RIP Eddie.”
Lemmy, guitarist Larry Wallis and drummer Lucas Fox formed the English rock band in 1975, but Clarke and Taylor contributed to most of Motörhead’s best-selling albums.
Clarke came on board in 1976 and is featured on the albums Motörhead, Overkills, Ace of Spades, Bomber, No Sleep ‘til Hammersmith and Iron Fist. He also sang lead vocals (sometimes duetting with Lemmy) on “Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers,” “I’m Your Witchdoctor,” “Step Down,” “Stone Dead Forever” and “Emergency.”
Clarke left the group in 1982 over creative issues. He made a guest appearance on Motörhead’s 2003 album Live at Brixton Academy. Clarke formed the group Fastaway with bassist Pete Way, formerly of UFO, in 1983. The band split up and got back together several times and had various line-up changes over the years. Their last album was 2011’s Eat Dog Eat. In 2014, Clarke released the blues album Make My Day – Back To Blues.
Clarke last played with Lemmy on Nov. 6, 2014, in Birmingham, UK, to play Motörhead’s classic “Ace of Spades”.
