Brian Downey Irish musician and composer, drummer. Date of Birth: 27.01.1951 Country: Ireland

Biography of Brian Downey

Brian Downey is an Irish musician and composer, best known as the drummer for the original lineup of the rock band 'Thin Lizzy'. He was born on January 27, 1951, in Dublin, Ireland. Downey first met bass guitarist Phil Lynott, who was studying at the same school, and they became close friends and co-founders of 'Thin Lizzy'.

Before joining 'Thin Lizzy', Downey played in several school bands, starting with 'The Liffey Beats', and later performed with 'The Black Eagles' alongside Lynott. He then joined a local band called 'Sugar Shack', but Lynott convinced him to join him in another band called 'Orphanage'. When the two young musicians met guitarist Eric Bell, they formed 'Thin Lizzy' at the end of 1969.

Although the lineup of the band changed over the years, Downey and Lynott remained the core members for the next thirteen years. Downey played drums in the band and also contributed as a songwriter. However, due to Lynott's drug problems, the band disbanded in 1984.

After Lynott's death in 1986, Downey continued to play drums and participated in the recording of Lynott's solo albums. In 1996, Downey joined the revamped lineup of 'Thin Lizzy' alongside John Sykes, Scott Gorham, Darren Wharton, and Marco Mendoza. The band served as a tribute to Lynott's legacy. Downey played with the band in 2010 and 2011 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Lynott's death.

Downey has also collaborated with other musicians, such as playing drums for Gary Moore's memorial concert and appearing on Moore's album 'Close As You Get' in 2007. In 2009, Downey, along with Mendoza and Wharton, rejoined Thin Lizzy when guitarist John Sykes left the band. They were joined by former Def Leppard guitarist Vivian Campbell and former 'The Almighty' vocalist Ricky Warwick.

The new lineup of 'Thin Lizzy' was announced in May 2010, and they embarked on an extensive world tour. Downey continues to perform with the band to this day.