Lynott’s 25th anniversary marked

It’s 25 years to the day since one of the most successful musicians ever to come out of Ireland, Phil Lynott, passed on.

Although born in the UK, Lynott was raised in the Crumlin area of Dublin from the age of four, and came to be seen as one of the city’s most beloved characters.

As front man, bassist and main songwriter of Thin Lizzy, Lynott secured international fame over the band’s 13 album life-span.

However, Lynott struggled with a drink and drug problem for much of his life. He died of on 4 December 1986, aged 36, after being admitted to hospital on Christmas Day with a drug-related infection.

A string of events are set to be held in memory of the charismatic rocker, kicking off earlier today with a ‘Flash Mob for Philo’ in the Button Factory at which members of Thin Lizzy took to the stage for impromptu sessions with various up-and-coming musicians who turned up on the day.

This evening, the annual ‘Vibe for Philo’ event takes place. Although held every year, the 25th anniversary show is being moved to the 1,500 capacity Vicar Street venue due to ticketing demand.

A string of acts will be performing, including some of the original members of Thin Lizzy.

Thin Lizzy's cover of Irish folk tune Whiskey in the Jar:

In addition to the annual 'Vibe for Philo' concert in Vicar Street in Dublin, other events will mark the 25th anniversary of his death.

Hot Press magazine has announced plans for a major exhibition of Lynott memorabilia, set to begin in March. The exhibition, to be held in Dublin’s St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, will include guitars, basses, tour jackets, flight cases used by Thin Lizzy, lyric books and even school reports.

Former band members have also marked the 25 year anniversary by speaking publically about their memories of the star:

Brian "Robbo" Robertson (who is set to headline the Vibe for Philo event): “Obviously  4 January is an emotional time for me and there's no better way to commemorate it than being in Dublin with all those Lizzy supporters who love Phil so much, many of whom weren't even born when he died."

Scott Gorham: "25 years on and I still miss the guy. Hell, we all miss him. It's a major reason why we go out and play the songs. But standing next to him for 11 years through all the ups as well as the down periods always brings back memories, especially at this time of year.

"As you can imagine, Phil and I got to know each other like brothers on a mission. Maybe not always a successful mission, but we always gave it a hell of a shot. He was a good friend, so I tell you what, when we introduce Phil each night... Take the roof off! I'm pretty sure he's watching.”

Brian Downey: Songs bring back some special memories to me especially at this time of year. Cowboy Song instantly transports me back to when Phil and me were kids going to see the Lone Ranger or Hopalong Cassidy and Roy Rogers at the Apollo Cinema in Dublin for Saturday afternoon cowboy matinees. Emerald, where Phil wrote about the myths and stories we were taught at school about ancient Gaelic wars and disputes. Or Black Rose, where Phil mentions the great literary figure Brendan Behan who lived on Bangor Road not far from where we both lived in Dublin. An abundance of personal memories, Phil, 25 years on. Always sadly missed.”

Darren Wharton: "Being a member of Thin Lizzy has been a fantastic and life-changing experience. Not only has it had a profound impression on me as a person, but also looking back, I've realised how much my own music with Dare has been greatly influenced by Phil, Scott, Brian and Thin Lizzy. Not so much in the style of writing, but more importantly in the sincerity and passion they brought to their unique music.

"As the years go by, I think about Philip most days, and when I do, I whisper a quiet 'thank you' to myself. So now, as I look forward to seeing you all soon at the forthcoming concerts; as we honour and pay tribute to the genius of Phil Lynott, and the music of Thin Lizzy... as we take the stage, I'll whisper once again, 'Thank you for letting me be part of one of the best rock bands there ever was.'"