Legendary Motorhead drummer Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor passed away Wednesday night after battling a prolonged illness.  He was 61.  News of Taylor's death was first spread by his former Motorhead bandmate, "Fast" Eddie Clarke, who wrote:  "My dear friend and brother passed away last night.  He had been ill for sometime but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes. I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character. Fortunately we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in Peace, Phil!"   Twitter was overrun the following day with condolences and remembrances from many of the biggest names in hard rock music.

Taylor performed with Motorhead from 1975 to 1984, and then again from 1987 to 1992.  Considered part of the band's classic lineup, Taylor appeared on most of the band's classic records, including their self-titled debut, Ace of Spades, Iron Fist and Orgasmatron.  While he hasn't been an official member of the band 23 years ago, the Philthy Animal took part in a Motorhead show in Birmingham last year that brought back the classic lineup.  Check out a YouTube clip from that performance below.