By Programmingeeksclub
March 06, 2023
Lynyrd Skynyrd was formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1964, originally as the band "My Backyard".
The band's name was inspired by their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner, who would punish students with long hair by sending them to the principal's office.
Lynyrd Skynyrd's most famous song is "Sweet Home Alabama," which was released in 1974 and became a Southern rock anthem.
1. In 1977, just as the band was achieving national fame, a plane carrying members of the group crashed in Mississippi, killing lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup singer Cassie Gaines, among others.
After the tragic plane crash, Lynyrd Skynyrd disbanded, but reformed in the 1980s with Ronnie Van Zant's brother, Johnny, on vocals.
Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006.
The band has sold over 28 million records in the United States alone.
Lynyrd Skynyrd's iconic logo, which features a winged skull with a top hat, was designed by guitarist Allen Collins' brother.
Lynyrd Skynyrd's song "Free Bird" is known for its epic guitar solo, which has been covered by numerous other musicians over the years.
Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to tour and perform to this day, with Johnny Van Zant still serving as the band's lead vocalist.