So the story goes. . .

Leonard Skinner was the high school gym teacher.
Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and Allen Collins were his students.
The trio formed a band, and named it after the man himself.
Thus, Lynyrd Skynyrd.

"American by birth. Southern by the grace of God."


In the early 1970's, many distinct styles of rock 'n roll were
beginning to emerge. One being "southern rock." Although it
is debatable as to who were the actual founders of southern
rock, it was Lynyrd Skynyrd who made southern rock famous.

Not only did Skynyrd have an unmistakable "southern flavor"
(lyrics and music that resounded of the Southland),
they were exceptional at their craft as well.
The quality of their work is exceptional.

"I'm as free as a bird now."


On October 20, 1977, a week after the release of the Street Survivors album,
vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backing singer Cassie Gaines,
and roadie Dean Kirkpatrick were killed in an airplane crash.

Here were the scheduled dates for the "Tour That Didn't Happen."

"10 Years Later. . . The Music Continues"

In 1987, ten years after the tragic plane crash, the remaining members of Lynyrd Skynyrd reunited for one of the most magical reunion tours of all time. Taking over on lead vocals was Johnny Van Zant, Ronnie's younger brother.

I was fortunate to have seen one of the shows, and I swear to you that it was the greatest concert I ever saw. It was unbelievable.

For those of you who saw the "Tribute Tour," you know what I'm talking about. For those of you who didn't, you should have been there.

"Rock stars shouldn't fade away." - Neil Young


Skynyrd still tours today, but I don't know if that's very cool.
Skynyrd was a prominent rock band; a band that contributed
a great deal to rock 'n roll, a band that shouldn't "fade away."
Unfortunately, today's Lynyrd Skynyrd seems to be doing just that.

Perhaps it's time to set the bird free.