Thin Lizzy Guitarist Scott Gorham Addresses Recent Health Scare

Legendary guitarist Scott Gorham, best known for his association with Thin Lizzy and Black Star Riders, has had a profound impact on the world of rock music with his distinctive style and contributions. For over five decades, Gorham has been at the forefront of rock music, known for his role in popularizing the “twin guitar” sound alongside iconic bands from the '70s. From his beginnings with Thin Lizzy in 1974, Gorham played on several critically acclaimed albums such as “Jailbreak,” “Johnny The Fox,” and “Live And Dangerous,” creating chart-topping hits like “The Boys Are Back In Town” and “Dancing In The Moonlight.” His smooth yet powerful guitar tone and rhythmic precision not only defined the band's sound but also influenced countless guitarists and rock musicians around the globe.

Recently on Darren Paltrowitz' podcast, Paltrocast, Gorham shares that he's embraced a new dimension of creative expression, embarking on a flourishing career as an artist. This foray into visual arts marks his third major creative chapter, following his successful stints with Thin Lizzy and Black Star Riders. His artwork, often rooted in intricate drawings and emotional expressions, has been well-received, garnering both critical acclaim and fan admiration. Gorham, who maintains that the artistic drive fuels his passion and joy, recently unveiled six new works, which have been made available as limited-edition prints via his website, “Scott Gorham World.” This artistic endeavor began as a private pursuit nearly forty years ago, secretly nurtured even from his closest companions, until its recent public unveiling.

While speaking with Paltrowitz, Gorham addresses his personal health challenges that brought his life into sharp focus. A severe health scare involving a kidney removal that led to sepsis profoundly affected him. During the procedure, the surgeon revealed that Gorham “died on the operating table,” a revelation that truly shook him. Despite this near-death experience, Gorham's resilience and determination have not waned. He is currently prioritizing recovery and rehabilitation, with hopes of returning to live performance. While rehabilitating, Gorham finds solace and engagement in his artwork, contrasting the constant travel and tour routines associated with his music career.

As the co-founder of Black Star Riders in 2013, Gorham continued his musical journey by pushing the boundaries of his rock artistry. This project began when Thin Lizzy members, including himself, sought to create new music under a fresh banner. Throughout its first decade, Black Star Riders produced several well-received albums such as “All Hell Breaks Loose” and “The Killer Instinct.” Though Gorham's departure from the band in 2021 was met with disappointment, his choice to focus solely on Thin Lizzy's legacy was widely respected.

Gorham is celebrated for his collaborative work with notable musicians outside of Thin Lizzy. His impressive resume includes contributing to studio albums for artists and bands such as Supertramp, Asia, and the Rollins Band. A close friend of Huey Lewis, Gorham expressed admiration for Lewis' transition from the band Clover to a successful solo career, highlighting supportive ties within the music community.