Gary Rossington Passes away at the age of 71
Gary Rossington, the last surviving founding member of the legendary rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, passed away on March 5th, 2023, at the age of 71. Rossington's contributions to the band were immeasurable, and his legacy will live on through his music for generations to come.
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 4th, 1951, Rossington formed Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1964 with Ronnie Van Zant, Allen Collins, Larry Junstrom, and Bob Burns. The band took their name from a high school gym teacher who famously told them their hair was too long and looked like "a bunch of lynyrd skynyrd."
Over the years, Lynyrd Skynyrd would become one of the most iconic Southern rock bands of all time, thanks in no small part to Rossington's contributions. He played guitar on every Lynyrd Skynyrd album, including such classics as "Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd," "Second Helping," and "Street Survivors."
One of Rossington's most significant contribution to the Lynyrd Skynyrd legacy was his co-writing credit on the band's signature song, "Sweet Home Alabama." Released in 1974, the song has become an anthem for the American South and a cultural touchstone for generations of music fans.
Rossington's influence extended beyond his work with Lynyrd Skynyrd, however. He also played with the Rossington Collins Band, which he formed with his wife, Dale Krantz Rossington, in the late 1970s. The band released two albums, "Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere" and "This Is the Way," and had a hit with the song "Don't Misunderstand Me."
In the years since the tragic 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of three Lynyrd Skynyrd members, including Ronnie Van Zant, Rossington remained a steadfast presence in the band's lineup. He continued to tour and record with Lynyrd Skynyrd, helping to keep the band's music alive for new generations of fans.
Rossington's passing marks the end of an era for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Southern rock as a whole. However, his legacy as a musician, songwriter, and cultural icon will endure for years to come. He will be remembered as a true legend of American music, and his music will continue to inspire and move people for generations to come. Rest in peace, Gary Rossington.