Lynyrd Skynyrd
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Albums
Members
Current
Alias
Artimus Pyle
Carol Chase
Background vocals
Dale Krantz-Rossington
Ean Evans
Hughie Thomasson
Johnny Van Zant
JoJo Billingsley
Leon Wilkeson
Bass guitar
Leslie Hawkins
Michael Cartellone
Peter Keys
Rickey Medlocke
History
Allen Collins
Guitar
Billy Powell
Piano
Keyboard
Organ
Bob Burns
Drums (drum set)
Bob Burns
Drums (drum set)
Cassie Gaines
Background vocals
Ed King
Gary Rossington
Guitar
Gary Rossington
Guitar
Larry Junstrom
Bass guitar
Robert Kearns
Ronnie Van Zant
Lead vocals
Steve Gaines
Story of Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd: A Southern Rock Legend
Lynyrd Skynyrd, often stylized as "Lynyrd Skynrd," is a legendary American Southern rock band that burst onto the scene in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1964. The band, originally formed as "My Backyard," was a raw and energetic group comprised of Ronnie Van Zant (vocals), Gary Rossington (guitar), Allen Collins (guitar), Larry Junstrom (bass), and Bob Burns (drums).
For five years, the band honed their skills, touring small venues and experimenting with different names and lineups. They finally settled on the name "Lynyrd Skynyrd" in 1969, a nod to their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner. The band released their debut album, "(Pronounced 'LÄ•h-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd)" in 1973. By this time, the band had solidified their iconic lineup, which included bassist Leon Wilkeson, keyboardist Billy Powell, and guitarist Ed King. Burns departed the group, and Artimus Pyle took his place on drums in 1974. Later, King left in 1975, and Steve Gaines joined in 1976.
During the '70s, Lynyrd Skynyrd soared to the pinnacle of Southern rock, captivating audiences with their powerful anthems like "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird." These songs became iconic staples of the genre, defining the band's signature blend of blues, rock, and country influences. The band released five studio albums and one live album, solidifying their status as one of the most influential rock bands of the era.
Tragedy struck the band on October 20, 1977, when their chartered plane crashed, taking the lives of Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines. The crash also severely injured the remaining members.
Lynyrd Skynyrd, though deeply impacted by the loss, refused to fade into oblivion. In 1987, the band reformed with Ronnie's brother, Johnny Van Zant, taking over lead vocals. The reunion tour proved that Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy lived on, their music continuing to resonate with generations of fans. The band has continued to release albums and tour, ensuring that their distinct Southern rock sound remains a vital part of the music world.
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