Primary Wave Music has formed a partnership with the estate of Phil Lynott, the co-founder and songwriter of Thin Lizzy. The deal centers on managing and promoting Lynott’s publishing catalog and recordings to keep his music alive for new listeners.
Iconic Songs That Defined Thin Lizzy
Lynott’s catalog includes several rock anthems that remain widely recognized. For example, his 1972 cover of “Whiskey In The Jar” helped launch Thin Lizzy into the mainstream. Five years later, “Dancing in the Moonlight” appeared on Bad Reputation and reached the UK Top 20. Then in 1976, “The Boys Are Back In Town” became the band’s signature single and hit the Billboard Hot 100 Top 20; it also reached No.1 in Ireland and the Top 10 in Canada and the UK.
Through this agreement, the estate will tap Primary Wave’s marketing, licensing, sync, content, and branding teams. Moreover, Robin Godfrey Cass of Primary Wave said the partnership resonates with him personally, since he has been a fan since the early 1970s. The estate added its own praise, stating: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering Primary Wave and very much look forward to working together continuing the legacy of Philip Lynott.” Furthermore, Cass called Lynott an “unbelievable musician, songwriter, and poet.”
Primary Wave’s Portfolio
This deal fits Primary Wave’s wider strategy of acquiring and nurturing iconic catalogs. Recently, the company closed partnerships with Patti LaBelle, Peter Green’s estate, and The Cars. In March, it acquired a stake in the Biggie Smalls catalog, a move tied to a reported $200 million valuation. In addition, Primary Wave manages rights tied to Bob Marley, Whitney Houston, Stevie Nicks, and Luther Vandross. By adding Lynott’s estate, the company strengthens its role as a steward of musical legacies.
Ultimately, Phil Lynott’s songwriting and voice continue to inspire artists and fans. With Primary Wave’s support, his recordings and songs should reach broader audiences. Therefore, the partnership aims to preserve both the music and the cultural impact of Thin Lizzy’s frontman.
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