Thin Lizzy Legends and Rock Icons Unite for Phil Lynott 40th Anniversary Tribute in Dublin

A major tribute concert is scheduled to take place in Dublin on January 4, 2026, marking the 40th anniversary of Phil Lynott’s passing. Titled Dedication to Phil Lynott, the event will celebrate the life, music, and lasting legacy of the iconic Thin Lizzy frontman, who passed away in 1986 at the age of 36.

Held at the 3Arena, the concert will bring together a powerful lineup of musicians, including former Thin Lizzy members, Guns N’ Roses guitarist Richard Fortus, and the 45-piece RTÉ Orchestra. Tickets go on sale August 16.

A Night of Legends and Legacy

Several key figures from various eras of Thin Lizzy’s history will take part in the tribute. Among them are original guitarist Eric Bell, keyboardist Darren Wharton (from the Renegade and Thunder and Lightning periods), and vocalist/guitarist Ricky Warwick—best known for his work with Black Star Riders and The Almighty. Bassist Marco Mendoza (formerly of Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake) will also perform, along with members of Lynott’s post-Lizzy project, Grand Slam.

The evening promises to be more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of Lynott’s enduring legacy in rock music and Irish culture.

Scott Gorham Recalls Lynott’s Final Days

Longtime Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham, who played alongside Lynott for years, has often reflected on his late bandmate’s final weeks. In a past interview with Classic Rock, he described one of their last visits together at Lynott’s home in Kew.

“I got there around eleven in the morning, and Phil opened the door in a bathrobe, pajamas, and slippers,” Gorham recalled. “He was all puffed up and struggling to breathe—his asthma was acting up badly, which always happened when he used heroin.”

Gorham said Lynott had just found out that a potential drug possession charge had been dropped, and to celebrate, he poured himself a pint glass nearly full of vodka—and downed it in one go.

Then Lynott suggested reuniting Thin Lizzy with Gorham and drummer Brian Downey. “I’m looking at him thinking, Are you kidding me?” Gorham said. “I knew what touring demanded physically, and he wasn’t in any shape for it.”

Still, Lynott appeared sincere in his resolve. “He told me, ‘Don’t worry. I’m gonna get my shit together. I’m gonna get off this crap.’ And he was so determined that I actually believed him.”

“The Iron Man” Wasn’t Invincible

On the morning of January 4, 1986, Gorham was at home when his wife, Christine, took the phone call. As soon as he heard her crying, he knew.

“That’s it,” he remembered thinking. “He’s dead.”

The loss hit hard. “I was grief-stricken,” Gorham said. “And I was surprised too. He’d been through hepatitis and so many serious health scares before—and always pulled through. He seemed indestructible. This was Phil Lynott we’re talking about—the iron man.”

Now, four decades later, Lynott’s music and memory continue to inspire. The Dublin tribute will be a fitting homage to a true rock and roll original.