Lynyrd Skynyrd

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Lynyrd Skynyrd's signature hit?

Lynyrd Skynyrd's signature hit is undoubtedly "Sweet Home Alabama."

How many Lynyrd Skynyrd members died in the crash?

In the tragic plane crash involving Lynyrd Skynyrd on October 20, 1977, six people lost their lives. Among the band members, three tragically died: lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines. The other three victims were assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, pilot Walter McCreary, and co-pilot William Gray. The crash occurred when the band's chartered Convair CV-240 ran out of fuel and went down in a forest near Gillsburg, Mississippi, while en route to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Several other band members and crew sustained serious injuries but survived. The event cast a long shadow over the Southern rock scene and marked a pivotal moment in rock music history. The loss of these core members deeply affected the band's trajectory, but Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy continues, with their music still celebrated by fans worldwide. The tragic incident is remembered as one of rock and roll's most devastating losses.

Why was Mick Jagger mad at Lynyrd Skynyrd?

The rumor that Mick Jagger was mad at Lynyrd Skynyrd stems from the band's use of the Confederate flag and their Southern pride, which some interpreted as controversial. However, a more direct reason often cited is Lynyrd Skynyrd's song "Sweet Home Alabama,"

Are any original Lynyrd Skynyrd members still alive?

As of 2024, none of the original founding members of Lynyrd Skynyrd are still alive. The last surviving original member, guitarist Gary Rossington, passed away in March 2023. Gary Rossington was a pivotal figure in the band, contributing to their signature sound and remaining with Lynyrd Skynyrd through various lineups and reunions. Other key founding members, such as Ronnie Van Zant, Allen Collins, and Bob Burns, have all passed away over the years, either due to the 1977 plane crash or other causes. Although Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour and perform, the current lineup includes later members and new musicians carrying on the band's legendary legacy. The enduring popularity of Lynyrd Skynyrd's music ensures that their influence remains strong, even as the original members are no longer with us. Fans can still experience the spirit of the band through live shows and classic recordings.

How many of Lynyrd Skynyrd died in the plane crash?

In the 1977 Lynyrd Skynyrd plane crash, six people died, including three band members. The band members who perished were lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup vocalist Cassie Gaines. The other three fatalities were assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, pilot Walter McCreary, and co-pilot William Gray. The crash occurred after the band's plane ran out of fuel and went down in a heavily wooded area in Mississippi. Several other band members and crew survived but suffered serious injuries. The tragedy had a profound impact on the band and the wider music community, effectively ending the original era of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Despite this devastating loss, the band's surviving members would later reunite with new musicians to continue performing Lynyrd Skynyrd's music, ensuring that the legacy of those lost in the crash endures for generations of fans.