THIN LIZZY With GUNS N' ROSES Guitarist RICHARD FORTUS: First Band Photo Released

April 14, 2011

THIN LIZZY has tapped guitarist Richard Fortus from GUNS N' ROSES as the temporary replacement for Vivian Campbell for all THIN LIZZY live shows while Vivian is back touring and recording with DEF LEPPARD.

Vivian's last show with THIN LIZZY will be at Slane Castle in Ireland on May 28.

Richard (formerly with THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS),pictured second from right, joined the band on stage at their recent Chicago show for two songs (see video below) and will appear with the band at all performances after Slane until further notice.

Commented THIN LIZZY guitarist Scott Gorham: "Richard is a true pro who blew me away the first time I heard him play," talking of the recent appearance in Chicago.

"We literally ran through the songs once in soundcheck and Richard was spot-on. He will make a great addition to the band and look forward to having him on the road with us."

Added THIN LIZZY guitarist/vocalist Ricky Warwick: "Richard, like myself, is a lifelong LIZZY fan, a fantastic guitar player and great guy and I am sure will be welcomed by THIN LIZZY fans everywhere. We all can't wait to get back on the road, so see you all this summer!"

In a recent interview with Gibson.com, Campbell stated about his involvement with THIN LIZZY, "It's been a tremendous pleasure to tour with THIN LIZZY. Playing with a band that meant so much to me in my formative years has really rekindled my passion for the instrument again. I haven't been this excited about guitar playing since I was in my teens!"

When asked if he would like to be a part of future THIN LIZZY tours, should he be available, Vivian said, "Absolutely! However, I continue to be fully committed to DEF LEPPARD, and we're going to be on the road from June of this year, so LIZZY [will be using] a replacement for me for their continuing summer dates. They have very kindly offered me the opportunity to come back when my schedule with DEF LEPPARD opens up, and you can bet that I'll be there in a heartbeat!"

Photo credit: Gene Ambo

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