We Will Be Strong

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as they spin the classic track "We Will Be Strong" by Thin Lizzy from their 1980 album Chinatown. This song, a Phil Lynott composition, kicks off the album with a punch, running at 5:11 and showcasing the band’s signature melodic rock style. It’s packed with expressive harmonies, overdubs of Lynott’s voice, and the iconic Thin Lizzy dual lead guitar sound. Despite its anthemic quality, the Chinatown album, including this track, wasn’t a universal hit with critics. Greg Prato from AllMusic called it a “letdown” compared to the band’s previous work, citing the absence of guitarist Gary Moore and producer Tony Visconti, but he still praised “We Will Be Strong” for its anthem-like energy. The song’s recording at Good Earth Studios in Soho marked a transitional period for the band, with new guitarist Snowy White stepping in. White, who had previously played with Pink Floyd, later reflected on the chaotic recording sessions, noting Lynott’s tendency to show up late—sometimes not until 11 p.m.—due to his rock star lifestyle and distractions like hanging out with friends such as Bob Geldof.

Delving deeper into the trivia, “We Will Be Strong” was part of an album that struggled to match the brilliance of Thin Lizzy’s earlier masterpiece, Black Rose: A Rock Legend. The band’s new keyboardist, Darren Wharton, only 18 at the time, brought a fresh synth touch to the track, which some fans on platforms like YouTube have praised for its layered production. A post on X from a Japanese fan, @TAKU_FLAMESIGN, called Chinatown a “masterpiece,” highlighting its significance in the band’s 1980s output and its feature of Snowy White’s debut with the group. However, not all memories were rosy. Snowy White, in a 2023 MetalTalk interview, shared that the band’s heavy drinking and drug use during the Chinatown sessions made the experience frustrating, contributing to his eventual departure after the next album. Despite these challenges, the song’s powerful lyrics, like “Somehow, someday, brother will use a gun,” reflect Lynott’s knack for weaving gritty, evocative themes into his songwriting, a trait that resonates with fans on fan sites like Thin Lizzy Fan.

Now, let’s rewind to how Thin Lizzy got their start. Formed in Dublin in 1969, the band was sparked by a friendship between drummer Brian Downey and bassist/vocalist Phil Lynott, who met as schoolmates. Lynott, who became the band’s charismatic frontman and primary songwriter, was joined by guitarist Eric Bell and organist Eric Wrixon, though Wrixon left shortly after. The band’s name, a playful nod to the “Tin Lizzie” robot from the Dandy comic (pronounced “Thin” in an Irish accent), reflected their cheeky Irish spirit. Their early years were marked by a blend of blues, soul, and Irish folk influences, setting them apart in the hard rock scene. Their breakthrough came with the 1972 single “Whiskey in the Jar,” a rocked-up traditional Irish folk song that became an international hit. Over the years, the band saw several guitarists, including Gary Moore, Scott Gorham, and Brian Robertson, with Lynott and Downey as the constant rhythm section. Lynott, the first Black Irishman to achieve major success in rock music, infused the band’s music with his diverse heritage—his mother was Irish Catholic, and his father was a Black Brazilian. Despite lineup changes and Lynott’s tragic death in 1986, Thin Lizzy’s legacy endures, with their music still celebrated by fans worldwide.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with Thin Lizzy’s world, check out their official website for authentic news and merchandise. The band’s Facebook page keeps the community alive with updates and throwback posts, while their Instagram shares iconic photos and tour memories. On X, you’ll find fans and the official account posting about the band’s influence and upcoming tribute events. For deeper fan engagement, visit Thin Lizzy Fan, a site dedicated to lyrics and tributes to Phil Lynott’s work. There’s also the Thin Lizzy Fans Facebook group, where fans share memories, rare photos, and discuss their favorite tracks like “We Will Be Strong.” So, crank up the volume, Zoo Freaks, and let Thin Lizzy’s timeless rock spirit take you higher!