A 1969 formation in Dublin brought together the talents of Philip Parris Lynott and drummer Brian Downey to create the foundation of Thin Lizzy. Drawing inspiration from Motown, Celtic culture, and the grit of working-class life, Lynott evolved from a novice bassist into a magnetic frontman, defining a sound built on dual lead guitars and imaginative, character-driven songwriting.
Early Development and Vocal Roots
Born in West Bromwich on 20 August 1949, Lynott moved to Dublin in 1957 to live with his grandparents, Sarah and Frank. His initial foray into music began with the Black Eagles in 1965. During his time with Skid Row, a group he formed in 1968 with Brendan 'Brush' Shiels and Gary Moore, Lynott initially served strictly as a vocalist, using an echo box to manipulate his voice. Following a health-related absence, he began learning the bass guitar on a Fender Jazz Bass purchased for £36.
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By the end of 1969, Lynott, Downey, and guitarist Eric Bell established Thin Lizzy, named after a comic book character from The Dandy. The band gained early attention with 'The Farmer' in 1970. Lynott eventually transitioned from a reserved presence to a commanding lead figure. The group achieved significant success throughout the mid-1970s with tracks including 'Whiskey in the Jar', 'The Boys Are Back in Town', 'Jailbreak', and 'Waiting for an Alibi', which showcased his distinctive pick-based bass style.
Final Years and Legacy
As the 1970s concluded, Lynott pursued solo projects and authored two poetry collections. Following the dissolution of Thin Lizzy, he formed the band Grand Slam. Despite personal struggles with heroin addiction during the 1980s, he recorded 'Out in the Fields' with Gary Moore in 1985. Lynott died on 4 January 1986 in Salisbury due to septicaemia-induced pneumonia and heart failure. He was buried at St. Fintan's Cemetery in Sutton, and in 2005, a memorial statue was unveiled in Dublin.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 August 1949, West Bromwich
- Died: 4 January 1986, Salisbury
- Primary Bands: Thin Lizzy, Skid Row
- Burial Site: St. Fintan's Cemetery, Sutton
- Recognized Awards: MOJO Awards
- Occupations: Composer, singer, bassist, songwriter, guitarist
- Citizenship: Ireland
Questions readers ask
How did Thin Lizzy get its name?
The name originated from the character 'Tin Lizzie' in the comic book The Dandy, which was also a nickname for the Ford Model T car. The letter H was added to reflect the Dublin pronunciation of the word thin.
What caused the death of Phil Lynott?
He died from septicaemia-induced pneumonia and heart failure, compounded by long-term struggles with heroin addiction.
Achievements
- Instruments: bass guitar and voice
- Genres: rock music
