Complete List Of Thin Lizzy Band Members

Feature Photo: AVRO, Klaus Hiltscher, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Thin Lizzy was formed in 1969 in Dublin, Ireland, and became one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s. Known for their twin-guitar attack, powerful rhythm section, and unique blend of hard rock and Irish folk influences, the band gained global success with hits like “The Boys Are Back in Town” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” Throughout their career, they released several albums, including Nightlife (1974), Jailbreak (1976), and Thunder and Lightning (1983). Thin Lizzy underwent multiple lineup changes, particularly after the tragic death of frontman Phil Lynott in 1986, but the band’s music continued to influence a wide range of artists in the rock and metal genres.

The band’s lineup shifted several times over the years, with notable members such as guitarists Gary Moore, Scott Gorham, and Brian Robertson contributing to the band’s sound. Thin Lizzy was one of the pioneers of the hard rock genre and influenced many bands that followed, particularly in the metal and classic rock scenes. Despite breakups and changes in membership, Thin Lizzy remains a legendary band in rock history, with several of their albums still celebrated today. Their success, however, was marked by tragedy, particularly the death of Lynott and the loss of several key members. Thin Lizzy’s legacy continues through live performances by various members and their influence on modern rock music.

The members of Thin Lizzy have had individual successes both within and outside of the band, with some continuing to perform and contribute to the rock scene. Below is a detailed account of each current and former member of Thin Lizzy.

Phil Lynott

Phil Lynott was the founding bassist, lead vocalist, and primary songwriter of Thin Lizzy, and his contributions to the band are immeasurable. Lynott formed Thin Lizzy in 1969 and remained with the band until its breakup in 1983, contributing to every major album from The Farmer (1970) through Thunder and Lightning (1983). His soulful voice and storytelling abilities were the defining elements of the band’s music. Lynott’s songwriting encompassed a wide range of topics, including Irish culture, personal struggles, and relationships. He played bass and occasionally guitar, creating the foundation for many of the band’s most iconic tracks, such as “The Boys Are Back in Town” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” After Thin Lizzy disbanded, Lynott released solo albums, but his life was tragically cut short when he died in 1986. His influence remains significant, and Thin Lizzy’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

Brian Downey

Brian Downey was the drummer and one of the founding members of Thin Lizzy, contributing to the band’s sound from 1969 until 1983. Downey’s steady and inventive drumming style formed the backbone of Thin Lizzy’s music, helping to create the groove-driven sound that became a hallmark of the band’s hard rock style. He played on all of Thin Lizzy’s major albums, including Jailbreak (1976) and Thunder and Lightning (1983), and was known for his ability to adapt to the band’s evolving sound over the years. Downey was a key part of the band’s live performances, delivering powerful, tight rhythms. After Thin Lizzy disbanded, Downey continued to perform and collaborate with various musicians. He also played a key role in the 2011 reunion of Thin Lizzy, participating in their live performances as the drummer.

Eric Bell

Eric Bell was the original guitarist for Thin Lizzy and played a significant role in shaping their early sound. He joined the band in 1969 and remained with them until 1973. Bell’s guitar playing was featured on Thin Lizzy’s first two albums, Thin Lizzy (1971) and Vagabonds of the Western World (1973). He was part of the band’s early experiments with hard rock, blending traditional rock influences with Irish folk melodies. Bell’s work on Vagabonds is particularly notable for its pioneering approach to twin-guitar harmonies, a characteristic that would define the band’s later work. After leaving Thin Lizzy in 1973, Bell went on to play with other bands, including his own project, and made occasional contributions to Thin Lizzy reunions. His time in the band remains an important chapter in Thin Lizzy’s history.

Eric Wrixon

Eric Wrixon was the original keyboardist for Thin Lizzy, contributing to their sound during the band’s formative years. He was a member of the band from 1969 to 1970 and played on their early singles, including the song “The Farmer” (1970). Wrixon’s time with the band was short, but his keyboard work helped to shape Thin Lizzy’s early musical direction. After leaving Thin Lizzy, Wrixon continued his career in music, though he did not reach the level of prominence he had with the band. He passed away in 2015, but his contributions to the early sound of Thin Lizzy are an important part of the band’s history.

Gary Moore

Gary Moore was a guitarist for Thin Lizzy during several periods: 1974, 1977, and 1978–1979. Moore first played with the band on Nightlife (1974), contributing to a few tracks before his departure. He returned in 1977 and played a larger role on the albums Black Rose: A Rock Legend (1979) and Live and Dangerous (1978), bringing his fiery, blues-infused guitar playing to Thin Lizzy’s sound. Moore’s guitar solos became a defining feature of Thin Lizzy’s music during this period, and his contributions helped elevate the band’s sound to new heights. After leaving Thin Lizzy, Moore had a successful solo career, releasing acclaimed albums like Still Got the Blues (1990). His passing in 2011 was a significant loss to the rock world, but his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation lives on.

Scott Gorham

Scott Gorham was a guitarist for Thin Lizzy from 1974 to 1983, contributing to the band’s defining sound during their most successful years. Gorham’s twin-guitar harmonies with Brian Robertson became a signature element of Thin Lizzy’s music, particularly on albums like Jailbreak (1976) and Live and Dangerous (1978). His work on songs like “The Boys Are Back in Town” and “Emerald” became iconic. Gorham remained with the band through multiple lineup changes and was a key member of Thin Lizzy’s success in the 1970s and early 1980s. After Thin Lizzy disbanded in 1983, Gorham continued his musical career, performing with bands like 21 Guns and Black Star Riders, while still occasionally touring under the Thin Lizzy name.

Brian Robertson

Brian Robertson was a guitarist for Thin Lizzy from 1974 to 1977 and again from 1977 to 1978. Robertson was instrumental in developing Thin Lizzy’s sound, particularly with his distinctive guitar solos and harmonies. His contributions to Nightlife (1974), Jailbreak (1976), and Live and Dangerous (1978) helped define the band’s sound during its most successful period. Robertson’s guitar work was a key part of the band’s twin-guitar attack, which became a hallmark of their style. After leaving Thin Lizzy in 1978, Robertson went on to have a solo career and worked with bands such as Wild Horses. He was also part of several Thin Lizzy reunions, including Still Dangerous (2009), a live album that captured the band’s final performances with Robertson.

Snowy White

Snowy White joined Thin Lizzy in 1980 and played guitar on the albums Chinatown (1980) and Renegade (1981). His smooth, blues-inspired guitar playing added a new dimension to Thin Lizzy’s sound during his tenure. White’s contributions to the band’s later work helped to shape the band’s sound during a time of transition. After leaving Thin Lizzy, White had a successful solo career and worked with artists like Peter Green and Roger Waters. His time with Thin Lizzy remains an important part of the band’s evolving sound in the early 1980s.

Darren Wharton

Darren Wharton was the keyboardist and backing vocalist for Thin Lizzy from 1980 to 1983. Wharton’s keyboards helped to add texture to the band’s sound, particularly on the albums Chinatown (1980) and Renegade (1981). His vocal contributions provided depth to the band’s harmonies, and his keyboards added a layer of sophistication to their hard rock sound. After leaving Thin Lizzy in 1983, Wharton continued to perform in various musical projects, including his band Dare, where he achieved success in the rock scene.

John Sykes

John Sykes was the guitarist and vocalist for Thin Lizzy from 1982 to 1983. Sykes played a pivotal role on Thunder and Lightning (1983), the band’s final studio album before they disbanded. His guitar work and vocals helped bring a more contemporary sound to the band during their last years. Sykes also contributed to Life (1983) and One Night Only (2000). After Thin Lizzy’s breakup, Sykes went on to have a successful career with Whitesnake and other projects, and he remains a highly respected figure in the rock and metal community.

Ricky Warwick

Ricky Warwick joined Thin Lizzy in 2010 and remained with the band until 2019. He served as the lead vocalist and guitarist, contributing significantly to the band’s sound during this era. Warwick played on Live in London 2011: 22.01.2011 (2011) and subsequent live releases, adding a fresh energy to the band’s performances following the passing of Phil Lynott. He also played a pivotal role in the formation of Black Star Riders, which became the primary vehicle for new Thin Lizzy music after their reunion. Warwick’s vocals helped bridge the gap between the band’s classic era and its modern incarnation, bringing a contemporary edge to the band’s live performances.

Damon Johnson

Damon Johnson joined Thin Lizzy in 2011 and was with the band until 2019. He played guitar and provided backing vocals, contributing to the band’s live sound and recordings. Johnson played a prominent role in the Live 2012 (2012) album, offering his skilled guitar work and harmonies. He was also a key member of Black Star Riders, which continued Thin Lizzy’s legacy in the 2010s. Before joining Thin Lizzy, Johnson had an established career, playing in bands such as Alice Cooper’s touring band and Brother Cane. His contributions to Thin Lizzy were integral during the band’s live performances in their later years.

Scott Travis

Scott Travis played drums and percussion for Thin Lizzy from 2016 to 2019. His drumming helped maintain the precision and energy of the band’s performances during this time. Travis is best known for his long tenure with Judas Priest, where he brought a powerful, hard-hitting style that fit well with Thin Lizzy’s classic rock sound. Although Travis did not appear on any major studio albums, his drumming was featured on live performances and contributed to the band’s dynamic on stage.

Troy Sanders

Troy Sanders played bass guitar and provided backing vocals for Thin Lizzy in 2019. Sanders is best known as a member of the heavy metal band Mastodon, and his involvement with Thin Lizzy marked a brief but notable period of collaboration. His bass playing added a new layer to the band’s live performances, contributing to their sound during a year of transitions. Sanders’ presence with Thin Lizzy in 2019 was part of a broader effort to keep the band’s music alive through performances and special appearances, following the passing of key members.

Tommy Aldridge

Tommy Aldridge was the drummer for Thin Lizzy from 1998 to 2003 and again from 2007 to 2009. Aldridge’s drumming brought a dynamic energy to the band during their reunion years. He played on the One Night Only (2000) live album, showcasing his solid, powerful drumming style that was a significant part of Thin Lizzy’s rhythm section. Aldridge is best known for his work with other bands, including Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake, but his contribution to Thin Lizzy helped maintain the band’s high-energy performances. After his time with Thin Lizzy, Aldridge continued to work with various artists and bands.

Michael Lee

Michael Lee was the drummer for Thin Lizzy from 2003 to 2007. He played with the band during their later years, contributing to their live performances and maintaining a tight rhythm section. Lee was known for his hard-hitting, versatile drumming, which fit well with Thin Lizzy’s classic rock sound. Tragically, Michael Lee passed away in 2008, ending his promising career. His drumming remains an important part of Thin Lizzy’s legacy, particularly in their live shows during the mid-2000s.

Guy Pratt

Guy Pratt was the bassist for Thin Lizzy in 2003. Pratt’s time with the band was brief, but his bass playing added depth to their live performances. Known for his work with Pink Floyd, Pratt’s skillful bass playing brought a fresh dynamic to Thin Lizzy’s sound during this short period. After his brief tenure with the band, Pratt continued to play with various rock bands and artists, contributing to numerous projects.

Randy Gregg

Randy Gregg was the bassist for Thin Lizzy from 2003 to 2005. He played on several live performances but did not appear on major studio albums. Gregg’s bass playing was solid and consistent, contributing to the band’s rhythm section during the early 2000s. After his time with Thin Lizzy, he continued his career in music, though he did not achieve the same level of prominence as some of the band’s other members.

Francesco DiCosmo

Francesco DiCosmo was the bassist for Thin Lizzy from 2007 to 2009. His bass work contributed to the band’s live performances during their later years, helping to maintain the rhythm section. DiCosmo’s time with the band was marked by several live performances, and he was part of the group during their ongoing efforts to maintain Thin Lizzy’s legacy. After leaving Thin Lizzy, DiCosmo continued to work with other musicians and contributed to various music projects.

Vivian Campbell

Vivian Campbell joined Thin Lizzy as a guitarist in 2010 and remained with the band until 2011. He contributed his guitar work to the band’s live performances, particularly during their reunion shows. Campbell, who was already well-known for his work with Dio and Def Leppard, brought his signature guitar style to Thin Lizzy, adding a modern edge to their classic sound. After his brief tenure with the band, Campbell returned to Def Leppard, where he continued to perform and record with the band.

Richard Fortus

Richard Fortus was the guitarist for Thin Lizzy in 2011, contributing to their live performance at the High Voltage festival. Fortus’s time with the band was short, but his guitar work added a new layer to Thin Lizzy’s sound. Known for his work with Guns N’ Roses, Fortus brought his signature playing style to Thin Lizzy, though his tenure was brief. After leaving the band, Fortus returned to Guns N’ Roses, where he continued to perform.

Tom Hamilton

Tom Hamilton played bass for Thin Lizzy in 2016 and 2017. Known for his work with Aerosmith, Hamilton’s bass playing added a familiar groove to Thin Lizzy’s live shows during his time with the band. Although his tenure was short, Hamilton’s contributions helped provide a solid foundation for the band’s performances during that period. He returned to his primary band, Aerosmith, after his time with Thin Lizzy.

Ian Haugland

Ian Haugland was the drummer for Thin Lizzy in 2016, contributing to their live performances during that year. Haugland is best known for his work with the Swedish rock band Europe, where he provided the powerful rhythms that helped define their sound. During his brief time with Thin Lizzy, Haugland helped maintain the band’s energetic performances, although his time with the band did not result in any major studio releases. After his time with Thin Lizzy, Haugland continued to work with Europe and other musical projects.