Lynyrd Skynyrd Age And The Crew Members

Lynyrd Skynyrd Age: A Southern Rock Legacy

Lynyrd Skynyrd, originally formed as “My Backyard” in 1964, In 2024, Lynyrd Skynyrd celebrates their 50th anniversary since the release of their debut album, Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd, which came out in August 1973 emerged from the vibrant music scene of Jacksonville, Florida. The band’s core members included:

1 Ronnie Van Zant (1948–1977): Lead vocalist and charismatic frontman.

2 Gary Rossington (1951–2023): Guitar virtuoso and the sole remaining original member.

3 Allen Collins (1952–1990) – Another talented guitarist.

4 Larry Junstrom (1949–2019) – Bass guitar wizard.

5 Bob Burns – The rhythmic heartbeat on drums.

Lynyrd Skynyrd played a pivotal role in bringing Southern rock to the forefront of music. Their 1972 debut album, Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd, featured iconic tracks like “Free Bird.” The band’s name was a nod to their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner, who often reprimanded students with long hair.Lynyrd Skynyrd (pronounced /ˌlɛnərd ˈskɪnərd/ LEN-ərd-SKIN-ərd) is a Southern Rock band, formed in Jacksonville, Florida, USA in 1964. The band became prominent in the Southern United States in 1973, and rose to worldwide recognition before three members and one road crew member died in an airplane crash in 1977. The band reformed in 1987 for a reunion tour with lead singer Ronnie Van Zant’s younger brother Johnny as the frontman. Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour and record. Of its original members, only Gary Rossington remains with the band as of 2010. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 13, 2006.

Tragic Losses

Unfortunately, Lynyrd Skynyrd faced several tragedies. In 1977, a plane crash claimed the lives of lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines. Despite these losses, the band’s legacy endured.

Current Members

1. Johnny Van Zant (65): Ronnie Van Zant’s younger brother, now the lead vocalist.

2. Michael Cartellone (62): The drummer.

3. Rickey Medlocke (74): A guitarist and vocalist.

4. Artimus Pyle (75): Former drummer.

5. Peter Keys (59): The keyboardist.

6. Johnny Colt (56): Bass guitarist.

7. Mark Matejka (57): Guitarist.

1. Q: How did Lynyrd Skynyrd get its name?

   • A: The band took its name from their strict gym teacher, Leonard Skinner.

2. Q: What was Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album?

   • A: Their debut album was Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd (1972).

3. Q: Who survived the 1977 plane crash?

   • A: Gary Rossington, the guitarist, survived and remains a key member.

4. Q: What tragic event impacted the band in 1977?

   • A: The plane crash that claimed the lives of several band members.

5. Q: Is Lynyrd Skynyrd still active?

   • A: Yes, the band continues to perform, honoring their legacy.