Philip Parris Lynott was an Irish singer-songwriter and musician. He was best recognized as the founding member, lead vocalist, bassist and principal songwriter of the hard rock band Thin Lizzy. He had a successful career with the band and following its disbandment, suffered from drug-related problems, particularly addiction to heroin. Known for his imaginative lyrical contributions and distinctive plectrum-based style of playing bass, Lynott also fronted a number of other bands as a lead vocalist, including Grand Slam, Black Eagles and Skid Row. Born in the West Midlands, he went to school in Moss Side, Manchester. In 1957, he moved to Dublin where he was raised by his grandparents. However, he stayed close to his mother throughout his life. Lynott had a happy childhood and was a popular character at school. He was an avid football fan and a keen supporter of Manchester United. In 1980, Lynott married the daughter of English comedian Leslie Crowther and had two children with her. On 4 January 1986, the Irish artiste died of heart failure and pneumonia at the age of 36. Even today, Lynott remains a beloved memory in the rock world. In 2005, a statue in his memory was constructed in Dublin.