A Rock ‘n’ Roll Farewell: Lemmy’s Ashes Journey from Bloodstock to Rock City
In a poignant and thrilling display of rock reverence, Lemmy Kilmister’s ashes embarked on a ceremonious journey today, marking a fitting tribute to the late Motörhead frontman. A procession of over 50 bikers thundered down Tolbot Street, embodying the spirit of the iconic rocker, having transporting Lemmy’s remains from Bloodstock Festival to their new home at Nottingham’s legendary Rock City.
The journey began at Bloodstock Festival, where fans and fellow rock enthusiasts gathered to pay their respects. The festival, which runs from August 8th to 11th, has been instrumental in commemorating Lemmy through a unique project. In collaboration with Motörhead’s team, Bloodstock commissioned a bust of the legendary frontman to incorporate his ashes. This tribute was on displayed in the RAM Gallery on the festival grounds, allowing attendees to honor Lemmy’s enduring legacy.
The bust’s journey, however, did not end with the festival. Once Bloodstock concluded, the tribute came to its new home at Rock City in Nottingham, a venue deeply intertwined with Motörhead’s history. Rock City has hosted ten memorable Motörhead shows over the years, solidifying its connection to Lemmy and his band. The venue’s statement reflects the honor of hosting the bust: “We are honoured to house the Lemmy Bust and we can’t wait to have fans from all over the world be able to pay their respects to one of the gods of rock inside our venue walls. Tying in such a figurehead of rock with our venue’s history is fitting, and we’re delighted the Bloodstock team asked us to give a home to the Lemmy bust between his annual pilgrimage back to their festival each year.”
This moving tribute highlights a continuing series of enshrinements for Lemmy’s ashes, which have also been scattered at Germany’s Wacken Open Air Festival and integrated into bullets and tattoos. The Rock City installation will allow fans to view the bust and pay tribute to Lemmy throughout the year, with the bust returning annually to Bloodstock for its ongoing homage.
Todd Singerman, Motörhead’s manager, underscored the significance of the tribute: “Bloodstock has always been a special place for Motörhead and for Lemmy. The people and the energy matched Lemmy’s values perfectly. This is definitely a fitting honor in the continuing series of enshrinements of Lemmy’s ashes in his most loved places.”
As Lemmy’s ashes make their way through these cherished rock venues, the biker procession serves as a vivid reminder of his indelible impact on the world of rock ‘n’ roll. The ceremony embodies the profound connection between Lemmy and his fans, ensuring that his legacy remains vibrant and ever-present in the hearts of those who celebrate his music.
