Lynyrd Skynyrd is an iconic American rock band that helped define the Southern rock genre with their signature sound, which blends rock, blues, and country influences. Best known for their hit songs like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird,” Lynyrd Skynyrd has been a staple of classic rock radio and remains a beloved band among fans of all generations. With a career spanning over five decades, the band has endured tragedy, lineup changes, and evolving musical trends, yet their impact on rock music remains undeniable.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Lynyrd Skynyrd’s members, their ages, and some fascinating trivia about the legendary band.
Who is Lynyrd Skynyrd?
Lynyrd Skynyrd was formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1964 under the name My Backyard. The band later changed their name to Lynyrd Skynyrd in honor of Leonard Skinner, a high school gym teacher who allegedly had a strict no-long-hair policy. Their blend of Southern rock, blues, and hard rock quickly caught the attention of music lovers across the U.S.
The group gained national attention in the early 1970s with their debut album Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd (1973), which included their breakthrough hit, “Free Bird.” This song became one of the longest and most well-known rock ballads of all time, and Lynyrd Skynyrd cemented their place in rock history.
Members of Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s lineup has gone through many changes over the years, with the band experiencing several members leaving, tragic deaths, and other significant events. Below are the key members who have been a part of the legendary band:
1. Ronnie Van Zant (Lead Vocals)
- Born: January 15, 1948
- Died: October 20, 1977 (Aged 29)
Ronnie Van Zant was the original lead singer and frontman of Lynyrd Skynyrd. His powerful voice, authentic Southern storytelling, and charismatic stage presence were central to the band’s identity. Van Zant was the primary lyricist for the group, contributing to hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Simple Man.” Tragically, Van Zant was killed in a plane crash in 1977 at the age of 29, along with several members of the band and crew. His death marked the end of the band’s first era, but the band would continue to honor his legacy in the years that followed.
Trivia: Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny Van Zant, eventually became the lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd after the band’s reunion in the late 1980s.
2. Gary Rossington (Guitarist)
- Born: December 4, 1951 (Age 73)
Gary Rossington is the only surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd. He was one of the founding guitarists and has remained a key figure in the band’s sound. Rossington is known for his iconic slide guitar work, particularly on songs like “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” He is often considered one of the most influential guitarists in rock music.
Trivia: Rossington survived the 1977 plane crash that killed Ronnie Van Zant, but he sustained serious injuries. Despite this, he returned to the band after their reunion in the 1980s.
3. Allen Collins (Guitarist)
- Born: July 19, 1952
- Died: January 23, 1990 (Aged 37)
Allen Collins was the other primary guitarist and one of the founding members of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Collins co-wrote many of the band’s most famous songs, including “Free Bird” and “Gimme Three Steps.” Collins was known for his aggressive, fiery guitar style and his musical contributions helped define the band’s sound. He survived the 1977 plane crash but later faced personal tragedy and health issues, including a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 37.
Trivia: Collins is often cited as one of the best guitarists in rock music and was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
4. Leon Wilkeson (Bassist)
- Born: April 2, 1952
- Died: July 27, 2001 (Aged 49)
Leon Wilkeson was the bassist for Lynyrd Skynyrd and a key member from 1972 until his death in 2001. His distinctive bass playing helped anchor the band’s sound. Wilkeson survived the 1977 plane crash but struggled with personal and health issues throughout his life. He was known for his quirky, charismatic personality and deep musical contribution to the band’s success.
Trivia: Wilkeson was known for his unconventional onstage persona, often wearing his bass guitar lower than typical bass players, giving him a unique look and stage presence.
5. Billy Powell (Keyboardist)
- Born: June 3, 1952
- Died: January 28, 2009 (Aged 56)
Billy Powell was the keyboardist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, joining the band in 1972. He is best known for his powerful keyboard intro on the song “Free Bird,” which has become one of the most iconic moments in rock history. Powell was a beloved member of the band, and his musical talents were a key part of their sound.
Trivia: Billy Powell had initially joined the band as a roadie but eventually proved his musical talents and became a permanent member.
Other Notable Members and Touring Musicians
Over the years, Lynyrd Skynyrd has had several members come and go, but the core of the band has always remained rooted in their Southern rock legacy. Johnny Van Zant, Ronnie’s younger brother, took over as the lead vocalist after Ronnie’s tragic passing. Other prominent members included Rickey Medlocke (guitar), Mark Matejka (guitar), and Michael Cartellone (drums).
Lynyrd Skynyrd Trivia
- Plane Crash Tragedy: In 1977, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s plane crashed while flying from Greenville, South Carolina, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and his sister Cassie Gaines, along with several crew members, tragically died in the crash. The event changed the band’s trajectory and led to a temporary hiatus.
- “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama”: These two songs are the most iconic tracks in the Lynyrd Skynyrd catalog. “Free Bird,” a ballad and rock anthem, is often considered one of the greatest rock songs ever written. “Sweet Home Alabama” is a beloved Southern anthem, despite its controversial political lyrics referencing Governor George Wallace.
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking a significant achievement in their long and storied career.
- “Sweet Home Alabama” and Neil Young: The song “Sweet Home Alabama” was written in response to Neil Young’s songs “Southern Man” and “Alabama,” which criticized the South’s history of racism. The song is often misunderstood as a defense of segregation, but the band has clarified that it was a response to Young’s songs, with lyrics acknowledging the complex relationship the South had with its past.
- Enduring Legacy: Despite the deaths of several key members, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour with Gary Rossington as the only original member. The band’s legacy lives on through their music, their influence on Southern rock, and their enduring fan base.
Lynyrd Skynyrd is one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock history. Their Southern rock sound, legendary hits, and tragic history have cemented their place in music history. With members like Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and Allen Collins, the band defined an era of rock music that continues to inspire new generations of fans.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the band or just discovering their music, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s influence on rock and roll remains undeniable. Their blend of storytelling, powerful guitar riffs, and unforgettable anthems ensure that their music will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
