Thin Lizzy

If you were to take a walking tour of Dublin, you would likely encounter a small handful of literary figures forever enshrined in statues. On North Earl Street, you will find James Joyce, adoringly referred to as “The Prick with the Stick.” Oscar Wilde lazes eternally in Merrion Square. In the center of Dublin, near one of his favorite pubs, Phil Lynott stands triumphantly, one hand on hip, one on his bass, as Ireland’s quintessential rockstar.

He was, however, so much more. Lynott’s lyrics gave a voice the people of Ireland, and recounted his own experiences through blunt honest and beautiful poeticism. Thin Lizzy is one of, if not the most underrated rock band of the 20th century, yet their influence in Ireland is inarguable. Lynott’s thematic lyrics often drew from Celtic history and mythology, as well as his personal experiences growing up as a black man in Ireland. He often incorporated fictionalized versions of himself in his work, such as the character “Johnny” who appeared in songs across Thin Lizzy’s discography.

Thin Lizzy displayed an unapologetic love for Ireland, and a masterful ability to effortlessly flow between many genres and themes. This chronological, hand-picked collection of songs attempts to highlight their unique, prolific rise to rock and roll infamy.