Births on March 17

Scott Gorham

Born on March 17, 1951

Scott Gorham, American singer-songwriter and guitarist

William Scott Gorham, born on March 17, 1951, is an American guitarist and songwriter whose name became synonymous with the iconic Irish rock band, Thin Lizzy. While not among the group's founding members, Gorham's indelible mark on their sound and legacy is undeniable. He joined Thin Lizzy in 1974 after a successful audition, stepping into a critical role during a tumultuous period for the band. Thin Lizzy had faced uncertainty following the departure of original guitarist Eric Bell and his brief successor, Gary Moore, leaving their future in question.

A Pillar of Thin Lizzy: The Twin Guitar Sound

Scott Gorham's arrival, alongside fellow guitarist Brian Robertson, ushered in what many consider Thin Lizzy's most critically successful and creatively fertile era. Together, this dynamic duo forged the band's distinctive "twin lead guitar" style—a pioneering sound that became a hallmark of their music. This innovative approach, where two guitarists played harmonized melodic lines or intricate counter-melodies, set Thin Lizzy apart and deeply influenced countless rock bands that followed. Beyond their guitar prowess, Gorham and Robertson also contributed dual backing vocals, adding another layer to the band's rich sonic tapestry. Gorham's commitment to Thin Lizzy was unwavering, remaining with the group until their initial disbandment in 1983. Remarkably, among all the band members, he holds the distinction of the longest continuous membership after the revered founders: frontman and bassist Phil Lynott, and drummer Brian Downey.

The Thin Lizzy Legacy Continues

Even after Thin Lizzy's official breakup and the tragic passing of its charismatic leader, Phil Lynott, in 1986, Scott Gorham’s dedication to the band's music never waned. Since 1996, he has been instrumental in keeping the spirit of Thin Lizzy alive, performing as the guitarist and contributing backing vocals with various assembled lineups. This ongoing commitment ensures that classic Thin Lizzy anthems continue to resonate with fans old and new. In a creative turn in 2012, Gorham co-founded Black Star Riders, a spin-off band designed to showcase new material while honoring the lineage of classic rock. However, in 2021, he made the decision to depart from Black Star Riders, reaffirming his singular focus on the enduring legacy and continued performances of Thin Lizzy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scott Gorham

Who is William Scott Gorham?: William Scott Gorham is an American guitarist and songwriter, best known as one of the influential "twin lead guitarists" for the iconic Irish rock band Thin Lizzy.
When did Scott Gorham join Thin Lizzy?: Scott Gorham joined Thin Lizzy in 1974, following an audition, at a pivotal time for the band.
What is Scott Gorham famous for?: He is primarily famous for his role in developing Thin Lizzy's groundbreaking "twin lead guitar" style alongside Brian Robertson, contributing significantly to the band's most critically acclaimed period.
Is Thin Lizzy still active today?: While the original lineup ceased performing in 1983 and frontman Phil Lynott passed away in 1986, Scott Gorham has led various lineups of Thin Lizzy since 1996, continuing to perform the band's classic material live.
Was Scott Gorham involved in other bands?: Yes, Scott Gorham co-founded Black Star Riders in 2012 to release new material, though he later left the band in 2021 to dedicate his efforts solely to Thin Lizzy.

References

Scott Gorham

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Events on 1951

11 Apr

President Truman's relief of General Douglas MacArthur
Korean War: President Harry Truman relieves General of the Army Douglas MacArthur of overall command in Korea.
22 Apr

Battle of Kapyong
Korean War: The Chinese People's Volunteer Army begin assaulting positions defended by the Royal Australian Regiment and the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry at the Battle of Kapyong.
25 Apr

Battle of Kapyong
Korean War: Assaulting Chinese forces are forced to withdraw after heavy fighting with UN forces, primarily made up of Australian and Canadian troops, at the Battle of Kapyong.
3 May

Harry Truman
The United States Senate Committee on Armed Services and United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations begin their closed door hearings into the dismissal of General Douglas MacArthur by U.S. President Harry Truman.
15 Oct

Combined oral contraceptive pill
Mexican chemist Luis E. Miramontes conducts the very last step of the first synthesis of norethisterone, the progestin that would later be used in one of the first three oral contraceptives.