Rock Legends Guns N' Roses Pay Homage to Thin Lizzy with Cover of Thunder and Lightning
"Guns N' Roses rock out a Thin Lizzy cover, featuring Slash on Gibson SG, in honor of John Sykes"
Guns N' Roses are on a roll with their current tour and have added a bit of nostalgia to their setlist by performing a classic track from Thin Lizzy. The performance seems to be a heartfelt tribute to the late John Sykes, who passed away in December at the age of 65.
During the show at the K-Arena Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan on May 5, bassist Duff McKagan stepped up to the mic for a powerful rendition of Thunder and Lightning. Originally appearing on Thin Lizzy's 1983 album of the same name, the song showcases the band's heavy metal prowess.
Thin Lizzy's 1983 lineup featured Phil Lynott on lead vocals and bass guitar, John Sykes on lead and rhythm guitars, Scott Gorham on lead and rhythm guitars, and Brian Downey on drums. Sykes' addition contributed to the album's heavier sound, marking a departure from the band's earlier work.
Sykes went on to join Whitesnake after his tenure with Thin Lizzy. now , it appears that Guns N' Roses are using the song as a way to honor the underrated guitarist.
In the fan-recorded footage, the song begins without introduction, and Slash swaps his signature Les Paul for a rare Gibson SG, adding a unique edge to the performance. McKagan's vocal delivery gives the song a strong punk influence, but it's the interweaving lead lines between Slash and Richard Fortus that truly steal the show. The countering guitar solos, particularly around the 2:30 mark, simply defy expectations.
The finale of the performance sees Axl Rose bellowing praises for McKagan, declaring, "A little thunder and lightning."
Tributes poured in for Sykes following his passing, and Steve Vai, who took over for Sykes in Whitesnake, recently spoke about the challenges he faced in following such an influential musician. Guns N' Roses have a history of paying tribute to late guitar heroes in their live performances; for instance, they played Black Hole Sun in honor of Chris Cornell after his death in 2017.
Guns N' Roses' current tour, which kicked off at South Korea's Songdo Moonlight Festival Park on May 1, marks the first time new drummer Isaac Carpenter has joined the band, who replaced longtime drummer Frank Ferrer just 24 hours prior. Slash made a surprise appearance at former Hanoi Rocks singer Michael Monroe's show at the Whisky A-Go-Go in April, sporting his iconic Les Paul, top hat, and all.
Stay tuned for updates on the band's upcoming activities and tributes to the rock legends who have impacted their sound and style. 🤘🏻🎸 Roll on, Guns N' Roses!
Subscribe to The Pick Newsletter
Never miss a beat! Get the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals, and more, delivered straight to your inbox. 📧 💕🚀
- McKagan swapped his bass guitar for a mic, delivering a powerful rendition of Thin Lizzy's Thunder and Lightning during Guns N' Roses' current tour.
- Slash traded his signature Les Paul for a rare Gibson SG during the performance, adding a unique edge to the rendition.
- The interweaving lead lines between Slash and Richard Fortus during the performance were especially noteworthy, particularly around the 2:30 mark.
- Amp up your music knowledge with our newsletter, featuring the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, and more.
- Guns N' Roses have a history of paying tribute to late guitar heroes, with previous live performances incorporating songs like Black Hole Sun in honor of Chris Cornell.
