Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister has died

Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister, the frontman of British metal band Motörhead, has died just two days after discovering he had cancer.

The news was posted on the group’s Facebook page last night, alongside a short statement celebrating the 70-year-old’s formidable legacy. “There is no easy way to say this,”  the band wrote. “Our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer... We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words.”

According to the statement, Lemmy passed away at home on Monday night – despite only being diagnosed with the cancer on December 26. The band are yet to divulge the full details of the disease. “We will say more in the coming days,” they added. “But for now, please…play Motörhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy’s music LOUD. Have a drink or few. Share stories. Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself. HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT.”

Lemmy, who founded Motörhead back in 1975, has been the group’s only constant member: recording 22 albums throughout the groups four decade lifespan. He was also part of Hawkwind – the 70s psychedelic band who would apparently use low frequency soundwaves to induce fits in their audiences.

As well as the music, Lemmy was known for his outspoken nature; and would reel off live-fast-die-young quotes to fans and interviewers whenever the opportunity came up. So, with that in mind, it only seems right to commemorate one of the biggest voices in British music by selecting some of his best. Get ready for some pearls:

“People don't become better when they're dead; you just talk about them as if they are. But it's not true! People are still assholes, they're just dead assholes!” – via White Line Fever, Lemmy’s autobiography

“As you go through life's rich tapestry, you realize that most people you meet aren't fit to shine your shoes. It's a sad fact, but it's true. A good friend is someone who'd hide you if you were on the run for murder. How many of them do you know?” - via The Independent

“The only interesting thing about religion is how many people it's slaughtered. Communism and Nazism are religions as well, make no mistake about it.” – via White Line Fever

“This entire generation seems to have become pussies, you know? Nobody seems to enjoy themselves much anymore.They are all knocking each other down for enjoying themselves.” – via a David L. Wilson interview

“If you didn't do anything that wasn't good for you it would be a very dull life. What are you gonna do? Everything that is pleasant in life is dangerous. Have you noticed that? I'd like to find the bastard that thought that one up.” - via The Independent

“I don't do regrets. Regrets are pointless. It's too late for regrets. You've already done it, haven't you? You've lived your life. No point wishing you could change it.” – via Classic Rock