Thin Lizzy

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Guess who just got back today?
Them wild-eyed boys that'd been away
Haven't changed, hadn't much to say
But man, I still think them cats are crazy
They were askin' if you were around
How you was, where you could be found
Told them you were livin' downtown
Drivin' all the old men crazy

[Chorus]
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
I said, the boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town

[Verse 2]
You know that chick that used to dance a lot?
Every night, she'd be on the floor, shakin' what she's got
Man, when I tell ya she was cool, she was red hot
I mean she was steamin'
And that time over at Johnny's place
Well, this chick got up and she slapped Johnny's face
Man, we just fell about the place
If that chick don't wanna know, forget her
[Chorus]
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
I said, the boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
{Instrumental}

[Bridge]
Spread the word around...
Guess who's back in town!
You spread the word around!

[Verse 3]
Friday night they'll be dressed to kill
Down at Dino's bar and grill
The drink will flow, and blood will spill
And if the boys wanna fight, you better let 'em
That jukebox in the corner blasting out my favourite song
The nights are gettin' warmer, it won't be long
Won't be long 'til summer comes
Now that the boys are here again
[Chorus]
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
(Spread the word around)
The boys are back in town
The boys are back in town
(The boys are back, the boys are back)

[Instrumental]

[Outro]
The boys are back in town again
They're hangin' down at Dino's
The boys are back in town again!

The Boys Are Back in Town is a classic rock anthem by the Irish hard rock band Thin Lizzy. Released in 1976, it quickly became their first top 10 hit song, and would later be followed by their arguably best hit, "Whiskey in the Jar". The track can be found on their sixth album, Jailbreak, which marked their breakthrough in the UK music scene. With its infectious melody, powerful guitar riffs, and Phil Lynott's distinctive vocals, this song has become a timeless favorite among rock fans.

So, what is the story behind The Boys Are Back in Town? Many believe that the lyrics are inspired by a Manchester street gang called the Quality Street Gang. The lead vocalist of Thin Lizzy, Phil Lynott, had a personal connection to this gang as his mother ran an illegal drinking den where the gang would gather. In an interview, Lynott's mother recollects the excitement and energy brought by the gang members as they frequented her establishment. This personal connection adds another layer of authenticity and depth to the song.

From the very beginning, The Boys Are Back in Town captivates listeners with its infectious energy. The song kicks off with a driving drum beat, followed by a powerful guitar riff that instantly grabs your attention. Phil Lynott's vocals are filled with intensity and charisma, drawing you into the narrative of the song. As the verses unfold, the band showcases their musical prowess through a blend of intricate guitar solos and solid rhythm section, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

The lyrics of The Boys Are Back in Town perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of youth and the excitement of a close-knit community coming together. It paints a vivid picture of a group of friends reuniting and causing a stir in town. The catchy chorus and anthemic nature of the song invite listeners to sing along and become part of the celebration. It's a song that evokes a sense of camaraderie and reminds us of the carefree moments of our own lives.

The success of The Boys Are Back in Town can also be attributed to its timeless sound and universal appeal. Thin Lizzy masterfully blended elements of hard rock, blues, and Celtic influences to create a unique and memorable sound. The song has stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its enduring popularity can be felt through its countless appearances in movies, commercials, and sporting events, solidifying its status as a rock classic.

One cannot discuss The Boys Are Back in Town without acknowledging the exceptional talent of Thin Lizzy's frontman, Phil Lynott. As the driving force behind the band, Lynott's presence and charisma are palpable throughout the song. His powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery bring the lyrics to life, infusing them with a raw emotion and authenticity. Lynott's songwriting prowess is also evident, as he effortlessly captures the essence of the street gang culture and translates it into a universal anthem.

In addition to Phil Lynott, Thin Lizzy consisted of incredibly talented musicians who contributed to the overall sound and success of The Boys Are Back in Town. Guitarists Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson deliver electrifying solos that showcase their technical skill and musicality. Their intricate guitar harmonies add depth and richness to the song. The rhythm section, comprised of drummer Brian Downey and bassist Phil Lynott, provides a solid foundation, driving the song forward with precision and energy.

The Legacy of The Boys Are Back in Town

The Boys Are Back in Town has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the world of rock music. Its infectious energy and memorable melodies have made it a staple in any true rock fan's playlist. The song's influence can be seen in the countless bands and artists who have been inspired by Thin Lizzy and have incorporated elements of their sound into their own music.

Furthermore, The Boys Are Back in Town continues to thrive in popular culture. Its anthemic nature has made it a perfect choice for sports events, with its infectious chorus uniting crowds and creating an electric atmosphere. The song has also appeared in movies and commercials, further cementing its status as a timeless classic.

Whether you're a die-hard rock fan or someone discovering Thin Lizzy for the first time, The Boys Are Back in Town is a song that demands to be heard. Its infectious energy, powerful vocals, and captivating lyrics make it a true rock anthem that stands the test of time. So turn up the volume, sing along to the iconic chorus, and let this classic track transport you back to the heyday of rock 'n' roll.

• Release Date: April 17, 1976
• Artist: Thin Lizzy