Kevin Riddles, legendary bassist and Angel Witch co-founder, dies at 68
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Kevin Riddles, the legendary bassist and founding member of Angel Witch, has died at the age of 68. His death was confirmed by longtime bandmate Kevin Heybourne on social media.
He passed away on July 4, 2025, following a battle with cancer that had caused a medical emergency and forced canceled performances earlier this year.
Known for his work in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), Riddles helped define the genre’s sound and attitude.
Born in London’s rock scene of the 1970s, Kevin Riddles teamed up with guitarist Kevin Heybourne in 1976 to form Angel Witch.
The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1980, became a landmark in British heavy metal and showcased Riddles’ distinctive bass work.
Their music stood alongside other NWOBHM pioneers such as Iron Maiden and Saxon, with Angel Witch gaining a cult following for its dark, melodic sound.
Acts like Metallica, Slayer, and Venom have cited the band as a direct influence on their early work. Riddles left Angel Witch in 1982 but quickly co-founded Tytan, a heavy metal act that included Angel Witch drummer Dave Dufort.
Though Tytan’s original run was short-lived, their music reflected the soaring power and grit of the early '80s UK metal scene.
A reunion in 2012 brought Riddles back to the stage and reconnected the band with fans both old and new. His return was marked by renewed energy and a second full-length album that honored their legacy.
In 2021, Riddles launched Kev Riddles’ Baphomet, a project that revisited the raw sound of his Angel Witch years with a modern edge.
The band’s live performances gained acclaim for blending nostalgia with technical precision, capturing the intensity of early NWOBHM while exploring new musical ideas.
Even during his illness, Riddles remained committed to his craft, performing when possible and engaging with fans. His dedication and passion for heavy metal never wavered.
News of his passing was shared by Angel Witch guitarist Kevin Heybourne, who wrote: "Kevin was a great guy and we remained mates until the end, he will be greatly missed.”
“Our condolences to his wife Julie. Rest in peace Kev." His bandmates in Baphomet echoed this sentiment with a statement:
"An absolute legend in the truest sense of the word, a larger than life character, an incredible and dedicated musician and a very fine and wonderful human being. Rest easy big fella."
Riddles’ contributions extended far beyond the stage, as he remained a vital part of the British metal scene for nearly five decades.
He was a mentor to younger musicians and a consistent presence at shows and festivals throughout the UK and Europe.
His influence can be heard in the evolution of heavy metal across generations, with Angel Witch’s early recordings still revered by fans and collectors. Kevin Riddles’ music and spirit will continue to resonate through the countless artists he inspired.
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Do you have a favorite Angel Witch or Tytan track that still gives you chills? Share your stories, memories, and tributes in the comments—how did Kevin Riddles’ music impact your journey as a metal fan?
He passed away on July 4, 2025, following a battle with cancer that had caused a medical emergency and forced canceled performances earlier this year.
Known for his work in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), Riddles helped define the genre’s sound and attitude.
Born in London’s rock scene of the 1970s, Kevin Riddles teamed up with guitarist Kevin Heybourne in 1976 to form Angel Witch.
The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1980, became a landmark in British heavy metal and showcased Riddles’ distinctive bass work.
Their music stood alongside other NWOBHM pioneers such as Iron Maiden and Saxon, with Angel Witch gaining a cult following for its dark, melodic sound.
Acts like Metallica, Slayer, and Venom have cited the band as a direct influence on their early work. Riddles left Angel Witch in 1982 but quickly co-founded Tytan, a heavy metal act that included Angel Witch drummer Dave Dufort.
Kevin Riddles, legendary bassist and Angel Witch co-founder, dies at 68. Image source: Huyền Linh / YouTube
Though Tytan’s original run was short-lived, their music reflected the soaring power and grit of the early '80s UK metal scene.
A reunion in 2012 brought Riddles back to the stage and reconnected the band with fans both old and new. His return was marked by renewed energy and a second full-length album that honored their legacy.
In 2021, Riddles launched Kev Riddles’ Baphomet, a project that revisited the raw sound of his Angel Witch years with a modern edge.
The band’s live performances gained acclaim for blending nostalgia with technical precision, capturing the intensity of early NWOBHM while exploring new musical ideas.
Even during his illness, Riddles remained committed to his craft, performing when possible and engaging with fans. His dedication and passion for heavy metal never wavered.
News of his passing was shared by Angel Witch guitarist Kevin Heybourne, who wrote: "Kevin was a great guy and we remained mates until the end, he will be greatly missed.”
“Our condolences to his wife Julie. Rest in peace Kev." His bandmates in Baphomet echoed this sentiment with a statement:
"An absolute legend in the truest sense of the word, a larger than life character, an incredible and dedicated musician and a very fine and wonderful human being. Rest easy big fella."
Riddles’ contributions extended far beyond the stage, as he remained a vital part of the British metal scene for nearly five decades.
He was a mentor to younger musicians and a consistent presence at shows and festivals throughout the UK and Europe.
His influence can be heard in the evolution of heavy metal across generations, with Angel Witch’s early recordings still revered by fans and collectors. Kevin Riddles’ music and spirit will continue to resonate through the countless artists he inspired.
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