Ian Fraser Kilmister, better known as Motörhead frontman Lemmy, has passed away at 70. The news was first reported by journalist Eddie Trunk and confirmed later by TMZ, who said he died on Monday afternoon.

Motörhead have released a statement on Lemmy’s death on Facebook, reading: “There is no easy way to say this… our mighty, noble friend Lemmy passed away today after a short battle with an extremely aggressive cancer. He had learnt of the disease on December 26th, and was at home, sitting in front of his favorite video game from the Rainbow which had recently made it’s way down the street, with his family. We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren’t words. We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please… play Motörhead loud.”

In an interview with Expressen, drummer Mickey Dee confirmed that Lemmy’s death is the end of Motörhead. “Motörhead is over, of course. Lemmy was Motörhead. We won’t be doing any more tours or anything. And there won’t be any more records. But the brand survives, and Lemmy lives on in the hearts of everyone.”

Kilmister joined the psychedelic rock band Hawkwind in 1972 where he contributed bass and vocals. After parting ways of Hawkwind in 1975, he created Motörhead. Motörhead, in 1977, released their self-titled debut. Over 40 years and 22 studio LPs, the group became one of the biggest hard rock bands ever, leaving a mark on heavy metal, punk, garage rock, and more. Their last album, Bad Magic, was released ealier this year.

In the four decades since the creation of the group, Motörhead experienced various lineup changes. As the founder and the only constant member of the group, Lemmy stood as the anchor.