Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake’s John Sykes Co-Founds Streetfighter

John James Sykes, a virtuoso guitarist whose contributions shaped the rock music scene, passed away in December 2024 at the age of 65. A prominent figure in the 1970s and 1980s rock scene, he performed with iconic bands such as Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, and later carved out a successful solo career.

Born on 29th July 1959 in Reading, Berkshire, Sykes spent part of his early childhood in Ibiza, Spain, where his father and uncle ran a popular discothèque. The family eventually returned to Reading, where at 14, Sykes was introduced to the guitar by his uncle, who showed him some of Eric Clapton’s famous licks. He quickly became captivated by the instrument, spending the next two years honing his skills, particularly in blues. However, after relocating back to Reading, he momentarily abandoned the guitar to focus on a relationship. Once he moved to Blackpool, he revived his passion for playing and was soon invited to join Streetfighter, a band formed by his friend Mervyn Goldsworthy, who would go on to play bass in bands such as Diamond Head, Samson, and FM. During this period, Sykes performed in Blackpool venues, including Jenks Bar, and worked alongside his stepfather, Ron Sharples, managing a recording studio called Berlin Recording Studios in the Norbreck area.

Streetfighter’s formation dates back to 1977, when Sykes and guitarist Dave Westrop teamed up to create a band with a distinctive twin-guitar sound. The lineup was soon completed by bassist Mervyn Goldsworthy, drummer Gary Taylor, and vocalist Lee Fenton, giving rise to the band’s full-fledged identity.

Sykes’ career took a major turn in 1980 when he joined the heavy metal band Tygers of Pan Tang. After two years of recording and touring, he became the lead guitarist for Thin Lizzy, replacing the departing Gary Moore. Sykes contributed to the band’s Thunder and Lightning album in the early 1980s and toured with them across Europe as part of a lineup that also featured frontman Phil Lynott. Following his time with Thin Lizzy, Sykes was recruited by David Coverdale to join Whitesnake, where he made his mark on their Slide It In album in 1984 and co-wrote the band’s highly successful self-titled album in 1987. Notable tracks from the album, such as Still of the Night and Is This Love, showcased his distinctive guitar style and songwriting prowess.

After parting ways with Whitesnake, Sykes returned to the UK and formed the supergroup Blue Murder, which featured bassist Tony Franklin and drummer Carmine Appice. He also released five solo albums between 1995 and 2004, which were met with critical acclaim. Known for his “blues player who plays rock” approach, Sykes continued to influence the rock genre with his unique blend of musicality and emotion.