British guitarist John Sykes, best known for his work with rock bands Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has died aged 65 “after a hard fought battle with cancer,” according to a statement on his website.

John Sykes has died. He was 65 years old. A notice shared on the Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy guitarist's website revealed that the artist had passed away after a battle with cancer. SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox "It is with great sorrow we share that John Sykes has passed away after a hard fought battle with cancer,

Guitarist John Sykes died earlier this month after a battle with cancer. He was 65.

Yesterday (January 20), it was announced that John Sykes – a hugely influential mainstay of '80s hard rock guitar who had stints in Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, and Tygers of Pan Tang – had died at 65.

Some of the world’s biggest rockers have paid tribute to former Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake guitarist John Sykes who died at age 65 after a “hard-fought” battle with cancer

The renowned guitarist played with several successful bands from the 1980s including Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy and Tygers of Pan Tang.

Listed among the greatest heavy metal guitarists of all time, John Sykes has been remembered by stars including Guns N' Roses stars Slash and Steven Adler.

Musician played on Irish band’s Thunder And Lightning album in early 1980s and toured playing Phil Lynott’s songs following his death

Rock legend John Sykes, guitarist for Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy, has died at 65 after battling cancer. Celebrate his legacy in rock and metal history.