Legendary Angel Witch bassist Kevin Riddles dies aged 68 after tragic cancer battle as bandmates pay tribute
A LEGENDARY heavy metal icon has died aged 68 after a tragic cancer battle.
Kevin Riddles, who was best known as a founding member and bassist of Angel Witch, sadly died on July 4.
Riddles was reportedly diagnosed with cancer before his death.
His death was announced on Instagram by the only surviving founding member of Angel Witch, Kevin Heybourne.
Heybourne wrote: “It is with immense sadness that I have to report that Kevin Riddles, our original bass player passed away on Friday 4th July 2025.
“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.”
In May, Riddles suffered from a “serious medical emergency” resulting in cancelled shows.
In addition to his work with Angel Witch, Riddles also co-founded ’80s power metal band Tytan.
He also started his own band named Kev Riddles’ Baphomet, in 2021.
Baphomet recaptured the Angel Witch music from his 70s to 80s era with the band.
His bandmates from later group Baphomet also shared a statement, writing: “Kevin ‘Kev’ Riddles passed away peacefully in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning 4th July 2025.
“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.”
A key figure in the formation of Angel Witch in London back in 1976, Kevin’s legacy lives on as the band remains a influence in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement.
The movement rose to prominence in the late 70s and soared internationally throughout the 80s.
Riddles was a key part of creating the distinct metal sound, cited as an influence for the likes of Metallica, Venom, and Slayer.
Kevin was instrumental in crafting Angel Witch’s self-titled debut album, which graced record stores in 1980.
However, he parted ways with the band in 1982 to establish his next venture, Tytan.
This outfit, which also included Angel Witch drummer Dave Dufort, was a significant player in the British Heavy Metal scene.
It emerged just as similar bands were enjoying peak popularity and commercial success.
Despite disbanding shortly after, the heavy metal group made a comeback in 2012 when Riddles returned for a reunion that culminated in a second full-length album.
