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A 2.25-meter bronze statue of Motörhead's Lemmy Kilmister, crafted by sculptor Andy Edwards, was unveiled in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent.
The statue incorporates Lemmy's ashes, symbolizing his deep connection to his hometown and musical legacy.
Phil Campbell praised the lifelike detail, capturing Lemmy with his iconic Rickenbacker bass and performance stance.
Hundreds of devoted fans gathered in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, this weekend to witness the unveiling of a striking bronze statue honoring Lemmy Kilmister, the iconic frontman of Motörhead. Standing at an impressive 2.25 meters, the sculpture meticulously captures Lemmy during his legendary performance at the 1981 Heavy Metal Holocaust Festival in Port Vale. Crafted by renowned local sculptor Andy Edwards, the statue showcases Lemmy passionately singing into a microphone while wielding his signature Rickenbacker bass guitar.
The installation on Market Square was not only a visual tribute but also a poignant homage, as it incorporates a portion of Lemmy’s ashes. Transported to the ceremony by a procession of bikers, the ashes symbolize the lasting legacy of a musician deeply rooted in his hometown. Lord Mayor Lin Sharp emphasized Lemmy’s connection to Stoke-on-Trent, highlighting his pride in commemorating a local hero who never forgot his origins.
Phil Campbell, Motörhead’s guitarist, expressed his admiration for the statue, noting its lifelike presence and accurate representation of Lemmy’s essence. The attention to detail—from the texture of his clothing to the stance with the Rickenbacker bass—demonstrates Edwards’ dedication to honoring Lemmy’s spirit. This addition to the local landscape ensures that Lemmy’s influence endures, resonating with both longtime fans and new generations of rock enthusiasts.
Beyond Burslem, Lemmy’s ashes have been interred in several significant locations, including the renowned Wacken Open Air festival in Germany, Rainbow Bar & Grill in Los Angeles, Rock City in Nottingham, and Stringfellows in London. Additionally, his ashes are slated for annual displays at the Bloodstock festival, further cementing his indelible impact on the global metal community.
Andy Edwards, the visionary behind the statue, brings a wealth of experience with musician sculptures of The Beatles, Bob Marley, and the Bee Gees. His ability to capture the unique aura of each artist is evident in Lemmy’s portrayal, making the statue not just a monument but a vibrant testament to the unyielding spirit of rock and roll.
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