Garth Hudson, the organist and multi-instrumentalist whose wizardry enhanced some of the best-known songs of 1960s and '70s rock group the Band including "Up on Cripple Creek," "Chest Fever" and "Ophelia,

John Sykes, best known for his work with popular rock bands Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has died at the age of 65. The British guitarist died after a bout with cancer, according to a statement posted to his website Monday. The statement did not disclose what type of cancer Sykes had nor did it reveal the musician’s exact death date.

The guitarist shared the challenges of creating new music and making lineup changes while keeping everything private, even from close friends.

John Sykes, the celebrated guitarist known for his exceptional talent and contributions to bands like Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has died at the age of 65 after battling cancer.