Do Anything You Want To

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Do Anything You Want To" by Thin Lizzy, a track from their 1979 album Black Rose: A Rock Legend, and the Zoo Freaks are loving the vibe! This song, the second single from the album, is a drum-driven anthem with an unusually heavy beat, showcasing the band’s signature dual lead guitar sound. One cool tidbit is the fade-out, where frontman Phil Lynott pays homage to Elvis Presley, singing snippets of Blue Suede Shoes. Lynott, a big Elvis fan, recorded this track in Paris at Pathe Marconi EMI Studios, and the nod to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll adds a personal touch, especially since Elvis had passed away in 1977. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “You can do anything you want to do, it’s not wrong what I sing, it’s true,” carry a rebellious, free-spirited energy that fits perfectly with the Zoo Crew’s hippie ethos.

Another interesting story about "Do Anything You Want To" comes from its recording context. This was the only Thin Lizzy album to feature guitarist Gary Moore as a full-time member, though he left the band soon after. Moore’s gritty, shredding style complemented Scott Gorham’s more classic guitar approach, creating the electrifying interplay that defines the track. Fans on platforms like Reddit’s r/thinlizzy often rave about the album, with some calling it a high point in the band’s career, though not without quirks—one user jokingly complained about the remastered CD’s mixing, suggesting a “blindfolded chimp” could’ve done better! Still, the song’s raw energy and Lynott’s charismatic delivery make it a standout, as noted in a 2025 X post celebrating the album’s 46th anniversary.

Thin Lizzy got their start in Dublin in 1969, born from the meeting of two schoolmates, Phil Lynott and drummer Brian Downey. Lynott, a charismatic bassist, vocalist, and songwriter, took the lead, shaping the band’s hard rock sound with Celtic influences. They began as a quartet with guitarist Eric Bell and organist Eric Wrixon, though Wrixon left early on. The band’s early days were gritty, playing local gigs and building a reputation in Ireland’s pub scene. Their first big break came with a cover of the traditional Irish song Whiskey in the Jar in 1972, which became an international hit and set the stage for their rise. Lynott’s unique perspective as a Black Irishman, born in England to an Irish mother and Guyanese father, infused the band’s music with a blend of cultural pride and outsider grit, making them pioneers in hard rock.

You can dive deeper into Thin Lizzy’s world through their official website, though it’s more of a legacy hub since the band’s classic lineup ended with Lynott’s passing in 1986. Their official Facebook page keeps the flame alive with updates on reissues and tributes, while their Instagram shares vintage photos and fan love. On X, you’ll find posts about the band’s enduring influence, like their impact on bands like Metallica. For fan communities, check out the Thin Lizzy Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks can connect with others to swap stories and vinyl finds. The fan site Thin Lizzy Guide is another great spot for detailed discographies and history, perfect for any diehard Freak looking to geek out.