The heavy metal legend was diagnosed with an 'extremely aggressive cancer' on Dec. 26.
Motörhead frontman and bassist Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister died on Monday after a “short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer,” the band confirmed on their Facebook page.
“We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words,” Motörhead’s announcement reads. “We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please…play Motörhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy’s music LOUD.”
There is no easy way to say this…our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely...
Posted by Official Motörhead on Monday, December 28, 2015
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Kilmister, who formed the band in 1975 after being fired from English space rock group Hawkwind, “learnt of the disease on December 26th,” according to the statement.
“Have a drink or few. Share stories. Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself,” the band wrote. “HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT.”
Celebrities from all across the entertainment world took to social media to express their condolences upon learning of the news.
Lemmy, you are one of the primary reasons this band exists. We're forever grateful for all of your inspiration. RIP pic.twitter.com/WC1csn5F5x
— Metallica (@Metallica) December 29, 2015