The Guardian reports that Michael Burston, better known to the world as Motörhead guitarist Würzel, has died after suffering from heart disease. He was 61.

Würzel spent more than a decade in the ever-shifting lineup of the British cult metal band, a feat in itself. After serving in the British army, working as a builder, and toiling as an unknown guitarist, he joined Motörhead in 1984. Within the band, he became a fan favorite, acting as an antic counterbalance to Lemmy Kilmister, the band’s founder and longtime frontman. He played on nine of the band’s live and studio albums before departing in 1995. After leaving the band, he released an ambient solo album called Chill Out or Die and guested frequently at Motörhead live shows.

Below, check out a video of Würzel playing “Ace of Spades” with Motörhead on the British cult comedy show “The Young Ones”.

Article source: Pitchfork

Würzel (Michael Burston), guitar player, born 23 October 1949; died 9 July 2011