Bust of Phil Lynott

Phil Lynott statue in West Bromwich (52638597124)

Bust of Phil Lynott is a sculpture dedicated to the memory of the renowned Thin Lizzy frontman, Phil Lynott. This commemorative piece is situated in Dublin, Ireland, the birthplace of the iconic musician. The bust serves not only as a tribute to Lynott's musical legacy but also as a point of interest in Dublin, attracting fans and tourists alike.

Background

Phil Lynott was an influential figure in rock music, best known as the lead vocalist, bassist, and primary songwriter for the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy. Lynott's contributions to music were significant, with hits such as "The Boys Are Back in Town" and "Whiskey in the Jar" propelling Thin Lizzy to international fame. Following his untimely death in 1986, there was a strong desire among fans and the Irish music community to honor his memory.

Creation and Unveiling

The bust of Phil Lynott was sculpted by Paul Daly, an artist known for his work in commemorating notable figures in Irish culture. The project was commissioned by the Roísín Dubh Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving Lynott's legacy. The sculpture captures Lynott's charismatic stage presence, featuring his signature afro hairstyle and a bass guitar slung over his shoulder.

The unveiling of the bust took place on August 19, 2005, which would have been Lynott's 56th birthday. The ceremony was attended by Lynott's family, friends, and fans, as well as figures from the Irish music industry. The location of the bust, on Harry Street just off Grafton Street in Dublin, is significant as it is near the Bruxelles bar, a venue closely associated with Lynott and Thin Lizzy.

Description

The bust of Phil Lynott stands as a life-size bronze sculpture, capturing the essence of Lynott's dynamic performance style. The attention to detail in the sculpture, from Lynott's facial expressions to the textures of his clothing, reflects the artist's dedication to realism. The sculpture is mounted on a plinth, which bears a plaque with the inscription, "Philip Lynott 1949 - 1986," along with a quote from one of his songs.

Cultural Significance

The bust of Phil Lynott has become a cultural landmark in Dublin, symbolizing the city's rich musical heritage. It serves as a reminder of Lynott's impact on the world of music and his role in bringing Irish rock to an international audience. Fans of Lynott and Thin Lizzy often visit the bust to pay their respects, leaving flowers and guitar picks as tokens of admiration.

Preservation

Over the years, the bust has been subject to wear and tear, prompting efforts to preserve this important piece of cultural heritage. The Dublin City Council and the Roísín Dubh Trust have undertaken conservation work to ensure that the bust remains a lasting tribute to Phil Lynott.

See Also

• Thin Lizzy
• Rock music in Ireland
• List of public art in Dublin