DJ Played STRUGGLING Band’s Deep Cut…REQUEST LINES Made it Overnight 70s Classic | Professor Of Rock

After years without a hit in their native land and a grand total of zero hits in America, Thin Lizzy was on their last leg… Phil Lynott and co were told by their label if their next record wasn’t a hit they’d kick ‘em to the curb. They were in debt, they were desperate but this band was made up of working-class Fighters…however today’s classic song, the Boys are Back in Town was one that the band deemed a throwaway track that didn’t even deserve to be on their next album, but the late decision to include the song would lead to a couple of DJs from the south playing the deep cut and it spread like wildfire not only saving their career, it catalyzed a classic rock anthem. Up next, the story of one of the most overlooked bands of the entire 70s and the surprising motivation behind this song…
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Hey Music Junkies, Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you were the fiercest Hungry Hippos player in your neighborhood you’ll dig this channel of musical nostalgia. It’s a daily time machine that will take you back to your youth or even better a simpler time. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on any of our upcoming interviews. Click the bell and check us out on patreon. Your support helps build this channel to more interviews and history.
So it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. Today we are going to celebrate a band that truly deserved better. I believe they are one of the most overlooked bands ever, and certainly of the 70s' best… they really had the true rock and roll spirit and created some of the greatest works in the classic rock canon including their 1976 magnum opus The Boys are Back in town I’m talking about Thin Lizzy.… So let’s find a good starting point here….
“Whiskey in the Jar”, is a good ol’ traditional Irish song that came from the southern mountains of Ireland, in ’72, Dublin’s Thin Lizzy re-imagined the beloved ditty and made a rockin’ rendition that SOARED to #1 in Ireland, #6 in the UK, and #7 in Germany. The band followed the success of “Whiskey in the Jar” with two ensuing singles that broke the Top 15 in Ireland.
But, then…. the band slid on a cold streak, with 6 consecutive singles, from two LPs, failing to chart... in any country, including their homeland. The height of frustration for any creator in any realm is when you string together several creations that succeed and you feel like you have it figured out only to falter and then before you know it, you’re sinking in the quicksand of failure and confusion.
With three years of futility, Thin Lizzy’s label, Vertigo Records, gave the band an ultimatum. The next album must perform, or else…… The pressure was on as they were in debt to their label and trying to keep their heads above water… So laying it all on the line, Thin Lizzy began creating tracks for their ‘make-or-break’ 6th studio album, titled Jailbreak. The band put together a demo of 15 songs to submit for management to listen to for their input on which tracks would be selected for Jailbreak.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: Who is your pick for the most under appreciated rock frontman or frontwoman of all time?

[@catherine6653]

Tom Bailey of Thomas Twins.

[@freezer8530]

Brad Delp.

[@SPak-rt2gb]

UFO'S Phil Mogg

[@christineml1476]

Tom Keifer from Cinderella - his solo albums are fantastic.

[@bobdavis4848]

@@catherine6653 You mean the great Thompson Twins.

[@christianbivona8165]

Thanks so much for your appreciation of the mighty Thin Lizzy. Criminally underrated in America for sure.

[@ProfessorofRock]

They were well ahead of their time!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I agree.

[@hollymartins6913]

Amen!

[@philiphalpenny9761]

@@ProfessorofRock Many major U.S. rock bands cite Lizzy as a key inspiration: GNR , Metallica, Bon Jovi etc ...alas, he was gone before they achieved their great success. I am sure that they would have loved to jam with him if he'd gotten help in time ...

[@ahha6304]

and far less known in Thailand

[@trinaq]

Yes, I adore this song and this band! Being from Ireland myself, this tune is played at seemingly every event, which makes me love it all the more. 💞

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool! I didn't know that Trina!

[@MikeMichaels1987]

I got to hug his statue in Dublin last year - I told him he was a naughty boy, gave him a wink and kissed his cheek. Did the same with Georgy boy in Belfast same week.

[@TheSlowoldman]

The majority of my ancestry is from the Islands, I got it all...., Irish, Welsh, Scottish and even Manx (along with a fair amount of Iberian Peninsula). I've never been to the UK or Ireland...... it's a bucket list item for me. I did sing Whiskey in the Jar in an Irish pub here with the crowd!!

[@catherine6653]

My grandmother (maiden name, O'Connell) grew up in Kilke, Ireland. She moved to London when she was 18, and met my grandpa. They later immigrated to the US. Her older brother Patrick, age 17 was a passenger on the Titanic. He did not survive.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Not very many Irish acts made it really big in the US. It’s a shame.

[@richardsaunders2431]

I was in the Army National Guard when this song debuted. We had annual training every summer that took us away from our families for 2 weeks every summer. I remember this song being played loudly in the barracks as we packed up to head home that summer. Epic!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Thanks for serving. 🙏

[@richardisbell1002]

Just last week when The Boys are Back in Town came on the radio it came to mind that this is the perfect spring to summer song. Anytime I hear it. It reminds me of that time and takes me back. If springtime had a soundtrack, this would lead it off. Thanks for what you do and all the great information that you give us. Keep up the great work.

[@TheNewRevolution]

I love The Boys Are Back. I still listen to it. It never gets old and sounds as good today as it did in the 70s. Every time I hear it, it puts a smile on my face. I live in Kentucky. It still comes on the radio here all the time.

[@brentcox7772]

Awesome in concert! Saw them with Nazareth back in ‘78! Nothing but “bangers” all evening!!🤘🔥

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amazing!

[@mournblade1066]

Nazareth! For some reason I was thinking Thin Lizzy did "Hair of the Dog," but didn't think that was quite right. And then I scroll down and see your comment mentioning Nazareth!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Wow! Hair of the dog!

[@Geezer-yf8hv]

Bangers and Mash! Sour mash for Whiskey!

[@Slowrollinlow1962]

I saw them on that tour what a show

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Boy are back in town and that whole jailbreak album are definitely pure straight forward rock and roll, I overuse that phrase myself. I remember in my younger days when the guys were going out on the town we would always jump in the same car and turn up this song on the way out. Great story professor and RIP to the great Phil Lynott.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good on ya! Always enjoy your comments!

[@theman4884]

You know that chick that used to dance a lot Every night she'd be on the floor, shakin' what she's got

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Tonight, there’s gonna be a jailbreak! Tonight, there’s gonna be trouble!

[@davidholden4543]

I remember buying some cassettes back in the day and thinking how the Thin Lizzy cassette didnt have one bad song on it in contrast to 2 or 3 clunkers on all of the other cassettes i bought that day. Of course this was way before itunes etc. and you had to buy the entire album along with the clunkers.

[@vonniedemers5683]

One of my all time favorite songs is Boys Are Back in Town. I was 10 or 11 when it came out. I drove my parents nuts with it. We went on vacation to Idaho, Montana, Utah etc, one if those driving vacations. We went in my dad's pick up truck, so all 3 of us were trapped in the front seat with me sitting in the middle of them. I was in charge of the radio, I was a constant channel switcher. Everytime I found BABIT I played it loud singing along... Good memories. They are very underrated.. And "Boys" will live on in my heart and head forever.

[@Benny_Sims]

Thin Lizzy is one of my all-time favorite bands. Once upon a time, I had every one of their albums. Man, the 70s were a great time to be alive.

[@Dwane-pk8zt]

Such a great band. I was fortunate to see them on their first stop of their first tour of the USA in support of their Jail Break album. In fact I had the honor of being one of the musicians in the opening act. Thin Lizzy was the headliner. So sad to have heard of Phil's death. But the music that they created will live on forever. R.I.P. Phil Lynott. Peace!

[@bdollerup]

This band was HUGE in Europe in general and in Denmark in particular when I was a teenager. I had all of their LPs (and latter got 'em as CD, downloads, etc.). I have seen seen in concert several time and what a show!!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank for commenting!

[@bdollerup]

@@ProfessorofRock Probably the best live band ever. Their "Live and Dangerous" alum is a watermark for live performances. In fact most if not all of their songs were much better live!

[@ueno1]

​@@bdollerup I play Rosalie and Are You Ready over and over!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So cool.

[@katharinejohns351]

I’m having a rough day at work…I turn this on to have as background noise but I’m low-key jamming. ❤❤❤ this song! A little bit later I get in my car to get some lunch. “Boys are Back in Town” just started on my favorite FM radio station. My day is made a little bit more. 🤘😊

[@TxGnomeAF]

Live and Dangerous is still one of my favorite albums from my youth. Phil and Gary will live for ever in my teenage dreams.

[@davewebb9452]

Live And Dangerous is the best live album ever. I will brook no debate over this.

[@michaelstamper5604]

Lizzy were "my band" in my teens. The "Live and Dangerous" version of "Warriors" got me hooked, and I ended up with a copy of every album they ever made, including the early Eric Bell ones. Much as I loved (and still do love) their singles, it's their album tracks that stay with me. "Fight or Fall", "Ballad of a Hard Man", "Cold Sweat", "Get out of here", "Sitamoia", "Black boys on the Corner", "Emerald".........the list goes on and on, and every one is a vivid, vibrant memory. RIP Phil, and thank you for everything.

[@MassiveOxyotl]

Thin Lizzy's "The Boys are Back In Town" was also recorded in quadraphonic, with the chorus line being repeated in each speaker. This was novel on FM AOR Rock Stations in 1976 and got a lot of airplay for this catchy tune.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for the info David!

[@crusheverything4449]

*Lizzy

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That was a pretty new way to record back then.

[@MassiveOxyotl]

@@crusheverything4449 Fixed, TY!

[@rb032682]

In 1976, that may have been the EV Quadraphonic System format. I read somewhere the album was also recorded on only a 4-track tape machine. Amazing quality and mix. Some engineers and producers are magicians.

[@eph3ff-kf6wo]

LOVE Thin Lizzy and it all started with The Boys are Back in Town. In the summer of 1976, my roommate, Mike, and I left from the summer camp where we were counselors to go into Savannah to grab dinner and a movie. On the drive into town, the Boy are Back in Town came on the radio, and it struck a chord with us because we had been sequestered away at the summer camp for a few weeks with little interaction with the outside world. Every time I hear the song, I think back to that evening and the good times we shared. Thirty-seven years later, Mike and I were still the best of friends and sadly I had to attend his funeral a few weeks ago. Now when I hear the song, I will be happy recalling that evening in the summer of ‘76 and then sad that my friend is gone now.

[@hotrod1793]

The most memorable moment of that song for me is how it blasted throughout the city of Oakland when it was announced the Raiders were leaving Los Angeles and returning to Oakland. Still gives me goose bumps when i hear that song

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The boys are back in Oakland…

[@conradmanley2180]

Icon indeed. Very few musicians have a life-sized statue in their home city. Thin lizzy gave us music that will span time. ❤💯

[@donnagerhart1273]

I completely agree that Thin Lizzy is one of the most underrated bands in rock who have been continuously snubbed by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Don’t get me started on the Rock Hall!! I was fortunate enough to have seen them live in 1978 and they were incredible!! Rest In Peace, Phil. Maybe someday you will get the recognition you deserve. Also, Professor of Rock, Cowboy Song by Lizzy is an often overlooked gem you might want to check out, has a searing guitar solo. Love your channel!!! Thanks for keeping rock alive and kickin’! 🤘Thanks

[@ProfessorofRock]

What a snub.

[@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830]

Donna, my favorite often overlooked tracks are Showdown and Dancing in the moonlight. They’re definitely criminally underrated.

[@donnagerhart1273]

@@throbbinwoodofcoxley6830 Dancing in the Moonlight is amazing!! Incredible bass track!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They might be too good for the Hall of Shame. At least they’re in Professor’s Hall of Fame. ❤

[@stevehernandez20]

Cowboy song has always been a favorite of mine. The other are also very good. I would add Alibi as well.

[@mwales2112]

Such a great band!! With Phil on bass, vocals, Gary Moore, Scott Gorham and Eric Bell on guitar over the years... These guys rocked my teen years and still listen to them today. RIP Phil and Gary...

[@PittsburghRocks]

It's brilliant the way you expand your analysis of a single song to provide background on an artist's entire career, Professor. Thin Lizzy is one of my favorite bands, and it is an absurdity that they're not in the RRHOF. Phil was the ultimate warrior-poet rock star, and we will never see his like again.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They are long overdue for a spot.

[@lawmantheonetrueking3739]

The disgrace is that non Rock acts have made it in. They should rename it as it certainly doesn’t acknowledge what their name is. Thin Lizzy should be in.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Really glad to know that they came back on Top. Can't imagine a world without Thin Lizzy! Cheers

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Their success was pretty…thick.

[@powerage17]

The most underrated singer songwriter ever ! Phillip Parris Lynott... Thanks for keeping Lizzy alive

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Thanks Phil for the music 🙏

[@jonasoverka3956]

In 1977, I was in the senior year of high school. I was 17 years old, 3 years of playing bass under my belt and unassuming on the idea of performance. I had never seen a rock and roll show ever before.. I had been listening to all sorts of what was called at the time, heavy metal, it was really hard rock. My favorite was KISS. So I saved up money from my first job at 16 years old and got 2 set of concert tickets. Jan 1st KISS w/Natural Gas (which I have no memory, all I wanted was KISS), and Feb 10 Queen and Thin Lizzy. With the exception of Natural Gas, I was very much into all three bands. KISS totally changed my life. Period. At that point in my life, I had tried playing 11 instruments, and was at that moment playing bass guitar, tuba, sousaphone (marched in Jimmy Carter's inauguration in between these two shows playing this instrument) and attempting harp and string bass. Pretty much F Clef as I was singing bass in the choir too. Anyway, back to Lizzy, Feb 10th, I was stoked, Phil and the boys were opening for Freddie, Brian, John and Roger. I had the Jailbreak album and had learned Cowboy Song on bass, but what ripped my head off was the 3rd song. EMERALD Even after KISS, and retrospect Queen. that performance of Emerald was one of the most perfect HARD ROCK AND ROLL performances I have seen in my life. Everything was perfect. The instruments. The vocals. The mix. The lights. PURE, unadulterated, from the heart, passionate, in your face ROCK AND ROLL. Dont get me wrong, KISS and Queen were spectacular. So were most of the bands Ive seen. There was only one band that disappointed me, but I wont name them, The singer was the only original member when I saw them so its unfair. Thin Lizzy, I was a fan from the day I hear Boys Are Back, so sad that both the bands I saw that night are gone Rest In Power ++++ Phil ++++ Freddie ++++

[@steveelling9604]

The Thin Lizzy live album is fantastic. Loaded with great stuff, fast and slow.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s much better than most concerts today.

[@generay6807]

Gawd this band has sooo many great songs that have never been heard on the radio. Twin guitar attack, Brian on drums and Phil as a frontman made this band a powerhouse. Still a favorite.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The twin guitars are some of the sweetest melodies I’ve ever heard.

[@murtbrennan]

Quite simply there is only one Thin Lizzy, there will never be another. The complete package. Great musicianship, brilliant songwriting, the looks,the presence,and in Phil Lynott one of the greatest frontmen of all time. Absolute Legends.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Good call Murt!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I wish I had seen them in their prime.

[@sleepyhollow783]

"Dedication" is my favorite Thin Lizzy song. Hardly any airplay, but every bit as great. So short but its punch, long lasting.

[@TheSlowoldman]

Phil Lynott! What a vocalist...... Thin Lizzy is criminally underrated. The Boys is a stereo buster..... the volume goes to 11 every time it comes on!!! Whiskey in the Jar is another!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

A stereo buster for sure! Hope you don't mind if I Use that!

[@RBS_]

@@ProfessorofRock ...hell, I'M stealing it too! ...ha-HAA!

[@TheSlowoldman]

@@ProfessorofRock Without question! Thanks for what you do Prof! Yours is the only daily I listen to!

[@MrYuk-lm3xp]

A stereo buster©️®️™️ sorry guys I own that phrase😂

[@RBS_]

@@MrYuk-lm3xp .....ha-HAAAAA!! ....I was gonna DO that!!! ....but, I was too pooped to cut n' paste a 'trademark'! ...ha-HAA!

[@gregwasserman2635]

Great episode! Fun fact - Cliff Burton was a huge of Thin Lizzy. The is a hugely underrated band. I love the tunes "Jailbreak" and "The Boys are Back in Town" but they have a lot of other killer rockin' tunes. "Cold Sweat" should have been a massive hit for them. But they have so many others, such as "The Rocker" and "Angel of Death". When I was in the hospital undergoing a stem cell transplant for multiple myeloma, I wore a "Dino's Bar and Grill, where the drinks will flow and the blood will spill" t-shirt the day I was released. I could barely walk because of the stress the transplant put on my body, but I wanted to pay homage to this tune because, dammit, I was going home. Another band that should be in the Rock Hall (and they should have been years ago!).

[@robertfiorellino6070]

This is one of my go to songs when taking a road trip. It's always on any of my play lists preceded by or followed by Radar Love. To me they are meant to be played together.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Radar Love is another wildly unique song.

[@Geezer-yf8hv]

At very loud volume!!

[@josephscalone5402]

Phil is one of the reasons why i play bass and wright songs, he is a great teacher for me

[@rytageo]

Thin Lizzy - has great guitar riffs on "Boys are Back" and "Cowboy Song"

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@rumblehat4357]

Emerald. The album “Jailbreak” is an absolute necessity. If you don’t have it, get it!

[@totallykoolyeah]

Chinatown is like a R+R UFO landing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Both earworms.

[@YFus825]

The magic of this song is that we can all relate to the joy of having our own “crew” back for some fun. The lyrics are fabulous!

[@stevewoods4539]

Thin Lizzy were the first big international act I got to see here in Australia...mind totally blown...they were musically superb but Phil was just an incredible frontman...he had the audience eating out of the palm of his hand from the start.

[@ix-Xafra]

Same I saw them in the Brisbane Botanical Gardens. Phil's mirror pickguard beaming reflected spotlights through the stage fog really impressed upon me

[@floydmccullough5555]

So happy to see you touch on this song, and as you said, such an under appreciated band.

[@Undertaker67203]

One of my favorite bands. It’s so sad Phil destroyed his health with drugs/booze. What a kick ass band

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He declined in every area of his health in the 80s, it seems. So sad.

[@philiphalpenny9761]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Phil recorded a demo in '84 called 'One Wish' where is ruefully ruminating on the fact the he'd thrown it all away.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@philiphalpenny9761 Now, that’s very emotional!

[@davewebb9452]

Phil was the only constant in the band. There was a revolving door of guitarists (Lizzy added a second guitarist because they had been so unreliable).

[@tedsilversyeager840]

Yeah, that never happens in the rock music world.....

[@bytornsnowdog1347]

THANK YOU! Thin Lizzy is one of the best bands in Rock and Roll history, Emerald and Black Rose being my personal favorite. Long Live Thin Lizzy!!! Hell yeah

[@seanswinton6242]

Phil Lynott is a Rock legend who wasn't fully appreciated during his life. Thin Lizzy and him, like Jimi Hendrix and others who got bigger after their death.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You're right on the money Sean!

[@durandaldevil]

Jimi was HUGE! Headlined Woodstock!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He was so cool.

[@beyourself2444]

Agreed

[@seanswinton6242]

@Roland Ruby I agree. However, posthumously, Jimi Hendrix got bigger and more popular. Based on his brief studio output from 1967-1970, it's pretty amazing. Fortunately, he lived in the studio and did many shows, making his releases for the last 50 years desirable. Introducing him to generations.

[@duncanbleak3819]

Nice tribute to my all time favorite hard rock band. Their music will live forever in the hearts and minds and souls of those with the courage to go deep into their discography!

[@vehicle22]

Thin Lizzy! Man, what a catalogue of classic tunes. And Gorham and Sykes, two underrated guitar rockers to go with Lynott's vocals. Who says the pre-U2 Irish can't rock lol

[@ProfessorofRock]

No question!

[@edryba4867]

Did someone actually say that?

[@crusheverything4449]

@fredgreen8133 - Nobody has ever uttered those words. Anyone commenting on Irish rock is already in love with Thin Lizzy. Also, U2 pre-dates the Sykes era of Lizzy. Cheers!

[@vehicle22]

@@crusheverything4449 If this is addressed to me, then Congrats! Not only did you a) miss the entire context if what I said, and b) can't/couldn't read the question and lol that followed, but also c) screwed up my screen name (you wound me lol). Cheers!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They WERE U2 before U2.

[@ReggieandMiloTheCat]

Another great upload. As a kid I didn’t know Phil Lynott’s name until he died, I just knew Thin Lizzy rocked on the radio. Much later I appreciated how great a bass player he was. RIP Phil.

[@davidlaw689]

Thin Lizzy was the first band I saw live. The Capital Theatre , Sydney in 1980 for the Chinatown Tour. My friends and I waited at the stage door to get their interviews , Phil was the last out , stoned out of his mind and holding a baby duckling in his hand . Oh and they absolutely rocked that night .

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow! WOW! So cool you got to see 'em live! Thanks for sharing David!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Phil must have been having a hard time.

[@Cbishop64]

I was at that concert at the Capital Theatre too. It was an epic night. Still one of the best concerts I’ve ever been too and didn’t even have all the stage production that big bands have these days. Just pure rock and roll energy.

[@davidlaw689]

@@Cbishop64 No frills rock and roll. A week later I was back at the Capitol to see Black Sabbath and they too put on a fantastic no nonsense rock show.

[@dkimuk]

Phil Lynott was an incredible musician and composer. My Mum was Irish so we grew up to the soundtrack of Thin Lizzy. He was just so charismatic and vibrant. One of my favourite things that he was involved with was Jeff Wayne's War of the Worlds. The whole thing is phenomenal but Lynott is electric as Pastor Nathaniel. His portrayal of the clergyman driven mad by the alien invasion is visceral and haunting. A truly great talent and, like you say, massively underappreciate.

[@DocGreenePrivate]

Love it! Wearing my Zenni glasses let’s not forget Wishbone Ash and the Allman Brothers for double harmonic leads

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Right!

[@BrandonRussMedium]

I enjoy all your work but this one really stands out. Still have a soft spot for Phil. Godspeed!!

[@georgemathie8123]

Thin Lizzy were a one of a kind unique, powerful, engaging and moving Phil lynott totally irreplaceable talent

[@robbit89]

I never realized the significance of Thin Lizzy until today. Thanks, Professor! How have I lived this much of my life without ever hearing the Jailbreak album front-to-back? I'm a bass player myself, and a few years ago I bought a Steve Harris (Iron Maiden) signature effects pedal. The user manual suggested settings for a Phil Lynott sound. Listening to the last track on Jailbreak, Emerald, I now understand why.

[@gioknows]

The first time I really heard Philip Lynott was when he sang the part of the Parsons on the incredible War of the Worlds album by Jeff Wayne…wow! On an album filled with incredible voices, Phil stood out he was that amazing. The Thin Lizzy song “I’m Still In Love With You” is one of the greatest sung songs ever IMO. I often rewatch the black and white video of WITJ as it reminds me of my childhood. Midge Ure actually joked he was the bands worst guitarist ever LOL. What a great song and what a great singer…top 10 of all time…maybe top three. Thanks for this. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada 🍁

[@jmazoso]

Sade covered Still In Love With You, and its fantastic.

[@philipebbrell2793]

The Life Live version is the older version is better than the first released rockier version.

[@frankstrysik1558]

Never heard of that War of the Worlds album. Thanks for the heads up!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He has some serious vocal chops.

[@Tipp_Of_The_Mitt]

Holy Shit, I didn't know about the WOTW album, If you listen to Lizzy's song Angel Of Death off the Renegade album he sings the same verse with different wording. You can hear it at about the 52: 50 time mark on War WOTW song part.

[@horstbaur7797]

Thank you so much for highlighting the wonderful Thin Lizzy / Phil Lynott. What a band! Prof, you also deserve a special shout-out for this great post. Thanx!

[@williambenner701]

The lyrics to The Boys Are Back In Town always intrigued me as far as the story behind it. So thanks Adam for telling that story. I saw Thin Lizzy open for Kansas around 78 or so, which actually surprised me that they would still open for other bands at that point.

[@crusheverything4449]

Arrrrgghhhhhh!!! My two favorite bands!! I’d give my left one to have been there!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They had become their own star by then, right?

[@williambenner701]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 yes. Fairly successful. Kansas was huge at this time though.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@williambenner701 Kansas had just made huge success with Point of Know Return.

[@williambenner701]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 true

[@czech70]

Well stated Adam. Thanks for giving Thin Lizzy some much deserved recognition.

[@markdouglas8356]

Saw them in Stoke-on-Trent on their Black Rose tour. Check out their Live and Dangerous album,. Just put on side 3 of the LP (Cowboy Song, The Boys are Back in Town, Don't Believe a Word , Warrior and Are You Ready for everyone else). If your heart's not thumping and your blood's not pumping after those tracks, better get yourself to the Emergency Room and have them check for a pulse!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha, I’d sure be safely jammin’!

[@seanduffy328]

Thanks for featuring Thin Lizzy. I was a huge fan. I saw them live 8 times in the UK. They should have been massive. They were victims of bad timing, bad luck, and excesses. Phillip passes away oh so young.

[@suszy5712]

My favorite song is Bad Reputation. Such a bad ass song!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Not to be confused with Joan Jett’s song of the same name.

[@elizabethp2395]

Oh I am SO glad you're covering this one, Professor! Always loved how Phil L brought Irish mythology to the masses.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure. Thanks Elizabeth!

[@Gos1234567]

From Ireland here and Thin Lizzy were a total anomaly in the 70s over here.Ireland was still a very backward rural conservative Catholic country and a black man was as rare as a four leaved shamrock;-) So for an urban hard rock band fronted by a black guy to gain such a following and do so well here and internationally was a great accomplishment for those lads. I consider them without a doubt the greatest Irish band ever and Phil the greatest Irish frontman,in fact hes up there with Jim Morrison,Jimi Hendrix,Robert Plant. RIP Phil

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He was one of the very few Irish black guys to transcend rock and roll.

[@counterpuncher01]

WOW Adam...even as a singer I never knew what Tessitura meant...looked it up...one of the countless reasons I love your show....inspiring, moving, heart-warming, heart-breaking, and educational

[@GummyBearWA]

Soon after the album dropped, I got it on my 13th birthday. I wasn't a big fan of "The Boys Are Back In Town" at the time. Songs like "Warrior, "Emerald", and "Cowboy Song" were and are some of the best songs period. I saw two shows on that tour with Journey.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Now, that must have been epic!

[@questionmanga3963]

I have to admit I didn’t think Thin Lizzy would find their way on your channel and I am pleasantly surprised. Great band and one of the best live albums ever!! I just got a collectible Phil figure from Knucklebonz (arrived last week).

[@thesmanbrowne4561]

Greatest hard rock band ever (in my opinion)

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

In the running.

[@izettmintz9694]

We really enjoyed this episode. I bought the Thin Lizzy Jailbreak Album on 8 track in 1978 because I liked The Boys are Back in Town. After listening to it several times, our favorite became Cowboy Song. Thanks again for this great video and we look forward to watching the next episode tonight

[@machwal4464]

Everyone talks about which musician they would bring back from the dead if they could...you always hear Cobain, Lennon, Bowie.... I've always said give me back Phil Lynott... Please😢

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great choice. So underrated

[@machwal4464]

@@ProfessorofRock Benjamin Orr hurt a lot as well.. thanks for all you do professor!

[@crusheverything4449]

@machwal4464 - You have impeccable taste, my friend.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He died twenty years before I was born, and it’s incredibly sad that I had to miss the era of this fantastic band.

[@machwal4464]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 if you put on headphones and listen to "live and dangerous" from beginning to end, you'll come as close as one can to their live charisma.

[@myliusbr]

Great video!! Great guitar duo of Gorham-Robertson (consistently shows the John Sykes-Gorham lineup) Robbo never gets his due😂. This band means so much to me and seeing this was a great start to my day! Thanks professor!!

[@LeatherRebel75]

I love Thin Lizzy. I like "The Boys are Back," but it is hardly their best song. But it is a good song to be a hit. Thin Lizzy is definitely hugely underrated. They should have been much bigger.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They have a lot of them. Shame they’re still flown under the radar.

[@beyourself2444]

I agree

[@duppster2862]

ABSOLUTELY! So underrated, my favorite band ever. The Cowboy Song , also very underrated.

[@travismiles5885]

I bought Dedication: The Very Best of Thin Lizzy(yes I know greatest hits albums are for housewives and little girls according to that Kids in the Hall skit) so I would have another tape listen too while convoying from Hungary to Bosnia in 1996. I wore that tape out while I was downrange. I also saw a great Thin Lizzy Tribute band in Darmstadt, Germany. I wish I could remember their name.

[@ed.barker7069]

Travis. There is a really good UK Thin Lizzy tribute band who have been around a long time called Limehouse Lizzy. Does that sound familiar? They might've played in Germany.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Tribute bands are good, but I just wish I saw the original lineup, meaning I had to be born earlier than I was.

[@chrisray9015]

It's so weird that you put this video up today as I only finally decided to delve into Thin Lizzy a bit by buying their 3 disc best of and Live And Dangerous cds yesterday! Crazy timing.

[@trinaq]

Please cover more Thin Lizzy tracks if you haven't already, such as "Dancing in the Moonlight" and "Whiskey in the Jar."

[@ProfessorofRock]

Whiskey in the Jar rules! Thanks Trina!

[@jayhafe]

Don’t forget Showdown

[@freddyt55555]

TL's arrangement of "Whiskey" is what Metallica covered.

[@carlwalker1623]

@@ProfessorofRock I’m thinking more of the final studio album Thunder and Lightning and if you can coax and in person interviews with the elusive John Sykes, I think it might help out of what ever it is he’s going through.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’d love to see it!

[@billbeckley1474]

Great job as always! As a side note, however, I would like to thank you for featuring a clip of Steve Clark of Def Leppard who also tragically ended his life too early due to alcohol. It was a very sly, smart and thoughtful move on your part. Bravo for that, Adam. Three chords and the truth, man!

[@starrywizdom]

That double guitar riff is MONEY. Always loved it.

[@bock-schroeder]

Min 11:11 consistent line up (founding member) includes the one and only Brian Downey on Drums ⚡

[@seancondon5572]

Adam, I'm glad you covered this track. I needed to add to my originals and covers playlist for months. And it just so happens that the 90s band Everclear covered this one for the Detroit Rock City soundtrack.

[@J_A_3_Art4Life]

Absolutely underrated band. I love that they were a UK band and had "Cowboy Song" heavily leaned into Texas. Always loved that one too. ACDC and Chris Rea also had songs about Texas. Always loved that fact.

[@petercena9497]

Don't forget the Scottish band Texas.

[@monkeybarmonkeyman]

Rhea is underrated as well

[@Nottheknickyknacknoo]

Not really a “UK band”, mind.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

The Lone Star State was certainly very revered.

[@derekscanlan4641]

Irish band! I went to the same school Phil did... in Crumlin, Dublin

[@weeds56]

Love ya posts. ‘Don’t believe a word’ is my fav Lizzy track. If ya get a chance, have listen to both the slow, bluesy version followed backtoback with the rockier single version. Gary Moore plays it that way in his memorial Dublin concert for his old band-mate on Utube. Cheerz

[@hugolafhugolaf]

Many metal bands, especially those from the 80s, were heavily influenced by Thin Lizzy. They were pioneers of the twin-guitar attack.

[@ProfessorofRock]

That twin guitar attack was amazing.

[@hugolafhugolaf]

@@ProfessorofRock Indeed it is my friend. I regularly re-watch the «Emerald» performance from «A Night on the Town» TV show on KZbin. Gorham and Robertson were scary good that night. One of the finest live performances ever IMHO.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That was an incredible rock innovation.

[@jerrycudd7209]

Wow! Is no one from Charleston SC on here? I was in college in Charleston in the 80s and this song was everywhere. We were convinced it was about Charleston and T Company, "The Boys", at The Citadel. We had Deno's Bar and Grill, Big John's Tavern (that was called "Johnny's place") and the song just fit. Great song, great band, awesome video. Thanks for the memories, Adam!

[@thomasfleeson7427]

Cannot believe you didnt even mention Cowboy Song, just saying

[@tristandunn4628]

Thin Lizzy are my fave 70s band. Criminally overlooked and underrated. Phil was a fantastic lyricist and vocalist. So tragic that he embraced the lifestyle to the extend that he did. It's great to see the influence that his songwriting has had, and the many artists that have covered his work: Iron Maiden, Anthrax, Mordred, Gamma Ray, Megadeth, Helloween, Metallica and Sade's beautiful rendition of Still in Love With You.

[@saintsfan39475]

Wow Adam, I just watched the story of "Without You" and the sad ending to the writers of that song and members of Bad Finger and I follow it up with Lynott's terrible end at 36. You're killing me man. Really, both of these stories left me in tears and I thank you profusely for sharing them. Where else would someone learn the greatest stories of the greatest artist in Rock history. It's important to remember that fame doesn't replace shame, hurts, insecurities or any other trauma hiding in our minds and our heroes are no better equipped to walk those roads alone than any of us are. Good lessons to learn, thank you for getting them out there.

[@UnlimitedPossibilities345]

Thank you for posting this story. Lynot was one of the best ever and Thin Lizzy was so underrated, imho. He was the whole package, singer, songwriter, front man extraordinaire. Myself, Dimebag, Robert Plant, and Phil, all share the same birthday. 🍻

[@DianaDeath]

This song will always and forever remind me of the cold, dark, pre-dawn morning when Mom and I arrived at the Naval base in Jacksonville, FL to welcome my father home from his deployment in Operation Desert Storm. The local DJs kept spinning the song, and local restaurants had their signages changed to read, "THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN!".

[@williammacleod6212]

My brother had The Adventures of Thin Lizzy on vinyl. As a kid I loved the album and ended up as 13 year old learning to play bass and singing and 30 years I stuck with it (retiring from gigging in 2019) Phil was my inspiration.

[@thethresh]

Professor - this is the best episode ever! Thank you for keeping the music alive.

[@myreefers]

Loved this band! Was fortunate enough to see them live with Kansas at The Forum back in '78. We miss you Phil...Thanks Professor for another great video.

[@steveharmon735]

First heard Thin Lizzy in the mid seventies when I was in high school. No radio play in the town I lived in except for non Rock bands. One day I heard Whiskey in the Jar on a late night radio station. Loved the vocals and Guitar. A friend of mine found an 8 track tape of Jailbreak and I was hooked for sure. Saw them opening for Queen in San Diego and it was magnificent. Drove to work each day playing Bad Reputation until the tape broke. Underated to most of the music world but truly a fantastic band with a great sound. My favorite rock group for sure. Very underated band. By the way I still have the 8 track tape. Thank you Professor of Rock for sharing this episode. Peace y'all.

[@bergmanst]

I'm 66 years old and I remember a friend buying the LP in 1975 the one before jail brake. He gave that to me and I still have it to this day. I own pretty much all PL; up to the last one he made. I was sad when I found out he passed back 86. I'm still a fan to this day.

[@antfirmin]

Thin Lizzy was a huge part of my life in the late 70’s and into the 80’s, always tore the roof of the Manchester Apollo, the bands real home whenever they played there.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They deserved the best.

[@Fiona2254]

This is such a great song! I can’t believe it was a throwaway song for them. I scored a vintage copy of Jailbreak and just love having that added to my bunch. RIP Phil, gone too soon. Thanks again for the content.

[@kimberlybain9143]

"JailBreak" has been on my playlist for decades. It's my favorite Thin Lizzy song.

[@jodyserner1229]

Jan 3rd 1986 I was at my first rock concert in Edmonton, AB, Canada. 14 years old seeing Dio's Sacred Heart tour. It changed my life. Later on that summer my friend was playing Thin Lizzy and I was hooked. It wasn't until years later I realized that was taking his last breaths as I was being introduced to a whole new world. RIP Phil. We love ya!

[@AlanSpenceAlanGCCMSpence]

Loved Thin Lizzy and Phil. I took up Bass Guitar because of him! Seen them in Cleveland Ohio @ Blossom center Monsters Of Rock! RIP Phil Lynott, Peace ✌️ and Love ❤️ Y'all

[@OutOnTheTiles]

Awesome t-shirt!!! Love Thin Lizzy. Everything from Nightlife to Thunder and Lightning is incredible. Great episode. 👍

[@elenamilitopingitore5044]

Truly unique and tremendously exceptional band. I am glad to have grown up with them.

[@Whisper_292]

I'm from Louisville and didn't know DJs from here had helped the song along. Makes me proud, and I actually have a good idea who the DJs were. I listened to a LOT of Louisville radio in the 70s. Interestingly, a Louisville DJ was also responsible for the hit "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" by Barbara Streisand and Neil Diamond. He did a mashup of their individual songs, it got back to them, and here we are.

[@jeffincabo]

One of my favorite bands of all time ! So underrated and so forgotten by so many. But in 1976 , one year out of High school, I was a Thin Lizzy fan for life ! It still saddens me to this day of Phil's problem with addition and his far too early death, but I will keep him in my heart forever through his fantastic music ! Love Thin Lizzy ! The most underrated Rock band of all time !!

[@questionmanga3963]

Awesome you had Classic Rock magazine in the background. I have subscribed to it for maybe 20 years and they have had many articles on Phil and of course loads of classic rock.

[@crusheverything4449]

Phil is on the cover of Classic Rock twice a year!!

[@chilecayenne]

The Boys Are Back in Town, takes me back to my childhood...a young teen at the neighborhood swimming pool during the summers. Me and my best friend, chasing the neighborhood girls at the pool....with this playing as part of the summer's soundtrack. The Cowboy Song was another rocking song off that album....

[@ritchhine6255]

This song and band is very much a part of my youth having graduated high school in 1976. Phil (Ace the Bass) had one of the most distinctive and recognizable voices in music. I love his contribution to Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of the War Of the World's. His "Preacher" is probably the most realistic, heartfelt & soulful singing I've heard him do. He reminds me of Tim Buckley in the amount of talent and yet the amount of torturous addictions that plagued them both. Thanks Professor for recognizing a wonderful yet, seldom lauded talent.