Australia's Golden Robot Records has released "My Guitar", a powerful and deeply personal posthumous single from late English guitarist John Sykes (TYGERS OF PAN TANG, THIN LIZZY, WHITESNAKE, BLUE MURDER), available now on all major streaming platforms.
The label has come under fire from Sykes's family for proceeding with the release without their authorization.,According to the label, "My Guitar" was recorded and updated during the sessions John worked on after signing with Golden Robot Records and forms part of the creative body of work he was actively developing at the time that he presented to the label.
The track "captures the unmistakable spirit, tone, and fire that defined Sykes as one of the most influential guitarists of his generation — raw, melodic, and emotionally charged.".,Addressing the controversy surrounding the release, Golden Robot Records stated: "In light of recent speculation surrounding this release, we wish to assure fans that this music is being released with the utmost respect, care, and affection for John.
The release of 'My Guitar' is fully permitted under John's recording agreement, and reflects the shared intention, held while he was with us, to complete and present this material properly.".,Sykes, who performed with THIN LIZZY and WHITESNAKE in the 1980s, died following a battle with cancer.
He was 65 years old when he passed away.,In response to the controversy surrounding the release, Sykes's family issued a statement blasting Golden Robot for its plans to release a posthumous EP from John without their authorization.
"We feel it is necessary to issue a statement on behalf of the estate of John Sykes," they said.,"In 2019, John Sykes parted ways with Golden Robot Records following ongoing issues relating to contractual agreements.
Since that time neither John Sykes nor his estate has authorised, entered into, or agreed to any arrangement with Golden Robot Records for his unfinished material to be mastered, released or distributed under their label.".,The family expressed concern over the decision to proceed with the release at a time when John is no longer able to represent or defend his own position.
"It is also notable that in the years following John's departure from the label, no public announcements or attempts were made to release this material while he was alive," they stated.,The controversy surrounding Sykes's posthumous single has sparked heated debate over Golden Robot Records' handling of the guitarist's estate.
The label has released "My Guitar" with a statement assuring fans that it is being done with respect and care for John, but many are questioning their decision to proceed without authorization from the estate.,Sykes left an indelible mark on hard rock and heavy music worldwide through his iconic work with WHITESNAKE, THIN LIZZY, BLUE MURDER, and as a celebrated solo artist.
His legacy continues to be felt today, and "My Guitar" stands as both a tribute and a testament to his enduring spirit.,For fans old and new, this is more than a song — it is a moment, a memory, and a final salute to a true guitar legend.
The controversy surrounding the release has sparked heated debate over Golden Robot Records' handling of John Sykes's estate.