Sykes leaves Thin Lizzy

Syked out: John's gone
Syked out: John's gone

Guitarist/vocalist John Sykes has left Thin Lizzy, the band have confirmed.

Update: Skyes has made a statement on his website: "First, I would like to thank the fans for all the support over the years and say it has been truly a privilege and an honor to sing and play Philip's great songs in THIN LIZZY.

"After dedicating many years to the band, I feel it's time to get back to playing my own music, and I very much look forward to touring in the near future. As always, love and respect to Phil. See you all soon."

The news comes after they were forced to cancel their UK support slot with AC/DC after drummer Tommy Aldridge broke his collarbone and couldn’t recuperate in time.

In a brief statement remaining guitarist and classic-era member Scott Gorham says: “It’s been a very tough time of late for myself and the band, firstly with Tommy’s injury, and now the decision for John and the rest of the group to go their separate ways.

“I can only apologise to everyone who has supported us over the years – but we will be back up at full speed soon.”

All current Thin Lizzy shows have been postponed until further notice, but Gorham, who joined Phil Lynott and co in 1974 and stayed until they split in 1983, intends to regroup and bring the band back once again.

Thin Lizzy cancel AC/DC shows

Have your say

6 comments

LizzyforEver

20/07/10 at 07:35

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John Sykes did the right thing. I think Scott should let go and stop getting money off of what was - the new line up just breaks my heart and I think that it's just wrong to do it. They should all go their own thing, find their own inspiration and stop living off someone else's (dream) accomplishments. Let us remember Thin Lizzy only with Phil. Bravo John! Hope to see you soon!

rhoadsfan

01/06/10 at 02:56

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My former band opened for Lizzy in 1998 in a club near Sacramento. It was the first time Lizzy was back in action since Phil's death. They were billed as Thin Lizzy/A Tribuite to Phil Lynott" I thought that was a classy thing to do as they band and fans celebrated the life of Lynott while rocking out to some classic tunes. Sykes was on fire that night, the whole band was. My two cents is that what started as a Tribute Tour turned into a 12 year ride. John always said it was to do right by Lynott's memory. I think after 12 years, countless tours it was time to call it a day. Leaving the fans with great memories and music is what Phil would have wanted. John knows that better than anyone. It was time to move on before burning out. Again, my two cents..

zofo

10/07/09 at 21:29

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Tizz Lizzy the best trib Lizzy band around and look the image of em too ask Phils mum!!.. Think Scott Gorham shud do his own thing now!!

kneeslider

02/07/09 at 11:14

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Hmmm..would it have still happened if Aldridge hadn't fell off his bloody pushbike!! Maybe it helped realise the inevitable or it was down to a major fallout between him and Scott.
Be interesting to see whether Scott manages to reform the band and make it work...!

Lyndon

02/07/09 at 11:14

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Well that's a ******.
I do hope it works out. Still haven't seen Thin Lizzy live yet and they can't split up until I have. :D

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