Sykes eventually became the group’s lead guitar player. A few years later, Sykes was invited to join the band Whitesnake by lead singer David Coverdale.

Legendary guitarist John Sykes, known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at 65 after a battle with cancer. Tributes pour in from the rock world.

John Sykes, the guitarist who performed with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake in the 1980s — and who co-wrote several tracks on Whitesnake’s highest-charting album, including the hit “Is This Love ...

John Sykes, the veteran hard-rock guitarist known for his time with Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, and the Tygers of Pan Tang, has passed away. The musician died "after a hard-fought battle with cancer ...

John Sykes, a veteran hard-rock guitarist who was a member of Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy and the Tygers of Pan Tang, has died, according to a post on his official Facebook page. He had battled cancer ...

He joined @whitesnake after, a perfect foil for David Coverdale. Our respect and thoughts to his family and friends and a massive thank you for being a part of the Thin Lizzy story and history.

Legendary guitarist John Sykes, known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at 65 after a battle with cancer. Tributes pour in from the rock world.

Legendary guitarist John Sykes, known for his work with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake, has passed away at 65 after a battle with cancer. Tributes pour in from the rock world.