I can’t believe John Sykes has passed away at the age of 65 after a long battle with cancer. I’ve been writing this post since then.
He is one of my biggest influences.
He built a career out of riff-driven metal magic, bluesy rock grooves, and unshakable hooks.
Sykes first official band was an outfit called “Streetfighter”.
They played mainly cover songs and an original song called “She’s No Angel” appeared on a compilation album called “New Electric Warrior”. There was also an EP released which can be found on YouTube with Sykes playing guitar and doing vocals.
In 1980, Sykes saw an ad for a lead guitar position. He auditioned and ended up joining Tygers Of Pan Tang for two albums, “Spellbound” and “Crazy Nights”.
The Tygers of Pan Tang – “Mirror” (1981)
From “Spellbound”, Sykes’ early work with the Tygers of Pan Tang showed his knack for composing majestic, melodic guitar lines. “Mirror” is proof that the guy wasn’t just a shredder—he had a gift for storytelling through his instrument.
John Sykes – Don’t Hurt Me This Way (Please Don’t Leave Me) (1982)
As a solo artist with Phil Lynott.
On its initial release it wasn’t a hit, however time has made sure it is remembered as one.
Thin Lizzy – “Cold Sweat” (1983)
Thunder and Lightning was Thin Lizzy’s final album, but “Cold Sweat” proved Sykes could craft a riff for the ages. Heavy and hypnotic, it’s one of Lizzy’s standout tracks, even influencing countless covers. Co-writing with Phil Lynott—arguably one of rock’s most charismatic frontmen—helped Sykes hone his craft, preparing him for the global stage.
Whitesnake – 1987
If there’s one album that cemented Sykes’ legacy, it’s Whitesnake’s 1987. He co-wrote some of the biggest tracks, blending Zeppelin-inspired heaviness with slick, bluesy hooks.
Let’s highlight a few:
• “Still of the Night”
A pure homage to Led Zeppelin, this track blends the spirit of “Immigrant Song” and “Kashmir” into a hard rock epic. From the iconic riff to the dramatic violin-inspired breakdown, it’s genius.
• “Is This Love”
A smooth, radio-friendly gem, it became an anthem for anyone who’s ever asked that age-old question.
• “Looking for Love”
Originally cut from the album, this 6-minute epic is arguably better than “Is This Love.” Unfortunately, its length made it less commercially viable—but fans know it as one of Sykes’ most underrated tracks.
David Coverdale has also said he was devastated when Geffen Records dropped it from the U.S release as the track is his favorite.
Blue Murder – Self-Titled (1989)
Post-Whitesnake, Sykes formed Blue Murder, assembling a lineup that included legendary drummer Carmine Appice and bassist Tony Franklin.
While their self-titled debut didn’t catch fire commercially, it’s a hard rock masterpiece full of epic riffs and majestic compositions.
• “Valley of the Kings”
A sprawling track with ancient Egypt vibes, it’s a standout with grooves and lyrics that still resonate today.
• “Jelly Roll”
A bluesy number with a killer outro that deserved more love.
• “Black Hearted Woman”
This heavy, groove-laden track calls back to Whitesnake-era Sykes. It’s massive and melodic in all the right ways.
While Blue Murder remains a cult classic, the band never got the recognition it deserved.
By 1989, hair metal was on its last legs, and grunge was around the corner.
Another studio album “Nothin But Trouble” dropped at the height of grunge with no promotion and then a live album a few years later completed the three album deal they had with Geffen.
Solo Work and Beyond
After Blue Murder, Sykes went solo. His albums, though under appreciated in the U.S., found loyal audiences in Europe and Japan.
“Soul Stealer” (1995)
The opener to Out of My Tree grabs you immediately with its groovy riff. It’s Sykes at his bluesy, shreddy best.
“I Don’t Wanna Live My Life Like You” (1995)
A punk-inspired anthem that stands out for its attitude and simplicity—a departure from Sykes’ usual intricate arrangements.
“Black Days” (1995)
An underrated gem with Bonham-style drumming and a driving riff that’s impossible to ignore.
“Cautionary Warning” (1997)
Used as the theme for the anime Black Heaven, this track features a haunting instrumental version. It’s one of Sykes’ most adventurous pieces.
His 2003 album, Nuclear Cowboy, saw him experimenting with samples and drum machines—a bold move that didn’t quite land, but still showcased his willingness to evolve.
Tracks like “We Will” and “Talkin’ Bout Love” brought some surprises, but it’s songs like “I Wish It Would Rain Down” that remind us why Sykes’ guitar work remains timeless.
And a new album was talked about for a long time.
In 2021, he dropped “Dawning of a Brand New Day” a 5-minute masterclass in heaviness and melody that was meant to hold us over until “Sy-Ops” came out.
This wasn’t the first taste of “Sy-Ops” we’ve gotten. Sykes dropped two other tracks on YouTube:
“Out Alive” – A nod to his Thin Lizzy and Judas Priest influences.
“Gates of Hell” – A continuation of the epic, larger-than-life style he perfected on “Valley of the Kings.”
The Bottom Line
John Sykes is one of rock’s unsung heroes. Whether he’s laying down anthemic riffs or soaring solos, his music continues to resonate decades later.
Crank it up.
Free Spirits Rising 