The long-promised documentary Phil Lynott: Songs For While I'm Away is set to hit screens in early 2020. And the good news is that numerous major stars and admirers have been lined up to participate in what promises to be a fascinating insight into the life and times of the man considered by many to be Ireland's original rock star.

Among those whose involvement has been confirmed are U2's Adam Clayton – who famously called Philip Lynott seeking advice and assistance from the bass-playing Thin Lizzy frontman, when U2 were starting out. Also on the list of star interviewees is James Hetfield of Metallica – a band who have spoken in the past about how influential Thin Lizzy were, and who covered the iconic Irish band's first hit single, 'Whiskey In The Jar'.

The feature-length documentary will trace how a young black boy growing up in working-class Dublin became one of Ireland's most influential rock stars. In addition to James Hetfield and Adam Clayton, former (and current) Thin Lizzy members, including Eric Bell, Scott Gorham, Darren Wharton and Midge Ure will also appear in the film. Others to have been interviewed include Lynott's former Skid Row bandmate Brush Shiels; his frequent collaborator, Huey Lewis; Hot Press editor Niall Stokes; and RTE's Dave Fanning.

The film is being shot by the Award-winning Irish director Emer Reynolds, who received a coveted Emmy during 2018, for her superb documentary, The Farthest, released in 2017.

Emer, who is a huge fan of Philip Lynott’s music, and of Thin Lizzy, has spoken about how honoured she is to be bringing what has been described as a “celebratory and intimate” portrait of Philip to the screen.

The film has received funding by Screen Ireland, who recently announced their 2019 slate of productions. The film is being produced by Alan Maher and John Wallace of Marcie Films, for their newly formed vehicle Cowtown Pictures. The production team also includes Peter Worsley of the music documentary specialists Eagle Rock Films whose involvement is through Globe Productions, which is part of Universal Music Group. Eagle Rock will handle the international rights.