What happened between John Sykes and David Coverdale? Legendry guitarist’s firing from Whitesnake explained 

John Sykes, the world-renowned guitarist, best known for his work with the likes of Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and Blue Murder, passed away at the age of 65 on January 21, 2025. After he died, a post on his social media celebrated his musical legacy and his positive personality.

John Sykes was a powerhouse of rock music and a guitar legend who went on to inspire many generations of rock music. Whether his solos from Whitesnake’s 1987 album or his contributions to Thin Lizzy’s Thunder and Lightning, John Sykes’ influence was undeniable, as per Blunt Magazine.

Sykes first found fame during his tenure with Whitesnake, where he co-wrote classics such as Still of the Night and Is This Love. The album’s staggering success was soon overshadowed by behind-the-scenes controversies. Due to this Sykes was fired from the band before it even hit the shelves. His bitter breakup with frontman, David Coverdale, evolved into one of rock history's most well known tales.

While Sykes and Coverdale undeniably shared some creative chemistry, their relationship turned ugly fast. In an interview with Metal Edge magazine, Coverdale admitted that, although their musical collaboration was fertile, they had nothing in common on a personal level. He continued saying:

"You can hear that there was creative magic in that relationship, but it stopped the moment we put the mics and instruments down."

That breaking point according to Coverdale was when Sykes tried to fire him from his own band. The Whitesnake founder was not pleased with this action, which further made him want to break up with the guitarist.

Before Whitesnake’s self-titled album was even in stores, John Sykes was forced out of the band even before Whitesnake’s self-titled album hit the stores. By then, Coverdale had brought in guitarist Adrian Vandenberg to re-record some of Sykes’ contributions, including the solo on Here I Go Again.

David Coverdale had also made it clear that he did not want to collaborate with John Sykes ever again. He believed that it was going to be as if it was all over again.

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John Sykes' career after being fired from Whitesnake

Following his exit from Whitesnake, John Sykes continued to carve out his place in music history through a series of other ventures.

In 1988 he formed the hard rock supergroup, Blue Murder, with bassist, Tony Franklin, and drummer, Carmine Appice. The band’s self-titled debut album showcased Sykes’ remarkable guitar skills and showcased his talents as a lead vocalist, with songs such as Valley of the Kings and Jelly Roll.

Taking over as lead singer and guitarist of a reconstituted Thin Lizzy in 1996, Sykes paid tribute to the late Phil Lynott. This lineup included original members such as Scott Gorham and Brian Downey.

In 2000 they put out the live album One Night Only. Sykes' solo career was also seen as a success, wherein he produced hit Tracks like Out Alive.