TODAY, JULY 29TH, ON WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN HIS 66TH BIRTHDAY, WE REMEMBER THE GREAT, JOHN SYKES

Today would have been John James Sykes‘ 66th birthday.

His loss is still felt, by a plethora of guitar fans, and skilled musicians alike, who knew what an accomplished, and highly underappreciated player he was. He is also missed, by those of us, who simply admired him, for what he was, a rock God.

To me, Sykes, was the penultimate, as he had it all. He was a phenomenal guitarist, a skilled songwriter, a surprisingly amazing vocalist, and on a superficial note, as pretty as any Hollywood leading man, take that Brad Pitt-LOL.

Therefore, it is with a heavy heart, that I acknowledge, today, 66 years ago, was born a true rock star. He sadly passed, way before his time.

God bless John Sykes, your fans are grateful, for all you contributed to the rock world, and to all those, whom you influenced, to pick up a Les Paul.

Your beauty, grace and talent were enough to fill many lifetimes. A rare jewel, that cannot easily be duplicated and will always be admired. Shine on, John, we love you (virtual kisses).

12 Responses

  1. What a Rock Powerhouse…..love the Cold Sweat video Dana….kinda weird that Scott Gorham is only shown on the last few seconds…but it is Sykes song…my mancrush is Phil Lynott….he was a beast….I’m actually going to Dublin in October with one purpose….to see and honor Phil’s statue…

  3. I remember how my heart sank when I found out about his passing. He is up there with EVH, Gary Moore, Randy Rhodes and Duane Allman as far as guitar playing is concerned. Also, as a straight man , yes, he was very very very good looking Dana. I can only hope the family has a plan to release his unreleased music for us.

  4. Thanks for recognizing what I believe to be one of the most underrated artists of his generation. I don’t know how many guitar players could have played Still of the Night with the sheer force and power that Sykes did. It’s crazy to say this given how accomplished David Coverdale is as a vocalist, but it’s the guitar playing that stands out on that song and truly carries it. It’s an absolute tour de force. And I remember picking up that first Blue Murder record and just being blown away by the vocals and songwriting. He was truly gifted and is very missed by his fans. Thanks to Eddie and the whole crew (especially Dana!!) for keeping the fire burning for this great music and everyone who love it!

    1. Thank you, Rich,

      For your great post, I could agree enough, with your comment about Sykes being one of the most underappreciated artists.

      In my opinion, he should have huge, he had it all. But, that’s okay, we all knew what a diamond he truly was, he will be sorely missed.

  5. I have a short list of artists that are not only kick ass guitar players, but tremendous songwriters and vocalists as well. John Sykes is clearly on that list. Eddie should do a poll and see who else belongs on that list. A few I can add off the top of my head are Brian Setzer, Ty Tabor, Ian Moore, Nuno Bettencourt, Dave Meniketti, and Rik Emmett.

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