Motorhead: Kilmister, Lemmy

ALS signed “Lem K,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, “May something” [1992]. Addressed from West Hollywood, a handwritten letter from Motorhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister, which he sent to Alan Burridge, manager of the band’s UK fan club. The letter covers various topics, including the sacking of the band’s drummer, Phil ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor, and the hiring of the group’s new drummer, Mikkey Dee. It reads, in part: “Hope all is well and jolly good show-esque. Here are 3 young letters I received from Poland which has an extremely dodgy language. Herewith also $200 towards stuff that is useful…perhaps a pair of roller skis, or an electric dog-polisher? Also, thank you for the bootlegs + you Mick. Now the bad news first;

Philthy has left the band – well, we fired him actually; his drumming has been deteriorating rapidly from the time since he re-joined us, and God (or some one) knows, I’ve made excuses to myself for him, but the fact is, the interest just doesn’t seem to be there in him. I know it’s a blow, Alan, but believe me, it was like throwing your younger brother out of the house because he’s crippled, for me. Very sad. But! Time has to march on! + we already have a new drummer which you will have heard is no stranger to Motorhead – Mikkey Dee, formerly of King Diamond + Dokken, an excellent Swedish drummer who is very good looking + chews tobacco!

As soon as we have photos, so will you – I suggest you liaise with Annette at Hot Shows, I’ll tell you to expect your call. Oh yes, new manager, too! His name is Todd Singerman + he and Sian Huggins will run our stuff from L.A…That’s probably enough shock treatment for now, apart from my breast implants, and Wurzel’s dorsal fin graft rejecting him! The album sounds great – here’s a couple of original drafts of 2 of the songs if you’d like to put them in the mag, and keep for yourself. Cheerio skates!” In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Tracks.

From the estate of Alan Burridge, head of the UK fan club the Motorheadbangers, the band’s official biographer and close friend of Lemmy.