Lemmy Kilmister Honored with Statue in Hometown: A Rock ‘n’ Roll Pilgrimage Begins
Lemmy Kilmister, the iconic frontman of Motörhead, has been immortalized in his hometown of Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, with the unveiling of a striking bronze statue. This monument not only commemorates the 10th anniversary of Lemmy's passing but also marks 50 years since the formation of the legendary band. The statue, created by local sculptor Andy Edwards, has quickly become a focal point for fans and a testament to Lemmy's enduring influence on rock music.
Hundreds of fans gathered in Burslem for the unveiling, including Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell, who praised the sculpture as "amazing." According to BBC Radio Stoke's Nobby, a longtime follower of the band since the age of 15, the statue "looks alive" and perfectly captures Lemmy's essence. More than just a memorial, the statue physically incorporates Lemmy's ashes within its plinth, creating a final and intimate connection between the rocker and his birthplace. The procession of motorbikes accompanying the ashes to the ceremony added a uniquely Motörhead touch.
Edwards, known for his sculptures of musical icons like The Beatles and Bob Marley, described Lemmy as his hero and an "avatar of the purest spirit of rock and roll." He chose to depict Lemmy in his signature pose, head tilted towards the microphone, playing his Rickenbacker bass guitar. The pose is inspired by the opening chord of their 1979 hit “Overkill”, bringing a specific and recognizable moment in time to life. The sculpture took six weeks to create, during which Edwards immersed himself in Motörhead's music.
The statue of Lemmy is more than a tribute to an individual musician; it's an acknowledgment of Stoke-on-Trent's often-overlooked role in rock history. Local musicians like Philippe Blenkiron see it as a representation of the city's talent and industriousness, while Julia Mosley hopes it will inspire future generations of musicians. Stoke is also proud to be birthplace of influential hardcore punk band Discharge.
The unveiling isn’t just a big deal for Motörhead fans. For Stoke – celebrating its centenary as a city this year – it’s also an acknowledgment of the city’s often forgotten role in rock history.
The celebrations included a motorcade starting at Grumpy's bar, a local haunt described as the kind of place Lemmy would have frequented had he lived there. T-shirts and wristbands were created, and the event was designed to bring together like-minded people, honoring Lemmy's love for good times and camaraderie.
Campbell notes that he doesn’t believe there will be another person like Lemmy ever again. Edwards hopes it will become a pilgrimage site, comparing its potential impact to that of Shakespeare for Stratford-upon-Avon, and The Beatles for Liverpool.
With the statue now standing tall, the legacy of Lemmy Kilmister and Motörhead continues to resonate, inviting fans from around the world to pay homage to a true rock icon. What do you think of the statue? Share your thoughts and memories of Lemmy in the comments below!
Do you think this statue does Lemmy's legacy justice? Let us know in the comments below.
