Gary Rossington, the last founding member of the iconic Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, has passed away at the age of 71. According to a statement from his family, Rossington died peacefully at his home in Florida surrounded by his loved ones. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Rossington was a guitarist and songwriter for Lynyrd Skynyrd and helped to pen some of the band’s most beloved hits, including “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” He was the last remaining member of the group’s original lineup, which formed in 1964 in Jacksonville, Florida. The band was known for their distinctive blend of rock, blues, and country music, and their energetic live performances.
Lynyrd Skynyrd suffered a tragic loss in 1977 when three of its members, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, were killed in a plane crash. Rossington was among the survivors and continued to perform with the band in various lineups over the years. In recent years, Lynyrd Skynyrd had been on a farewell tour, which was set to conclude in 2023.
Rossington’s death is a significant loss for Lynyrd Skynyrd fans and the music world at large. His contributions to the band’s sound and legacy are immeasurable, and he will be greatly missed.
Gary Rossington’s death marks the end of an era for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Southern rock music as a whole. His distinctive guitar work and songwriting helped to define the genre and inspire countless musicians. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s influence can be heard in the music of bands like The Black Crowes and Kings of Leon, among others.
Rossington’s passing comes at a difficult time for Lynyrd Skynyrd fans, as the band was in the midst of a farewell tour. The tour, which had been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was set to conclude in October 2023. It’s unclear how the band will proceed without Rossington, but they have vowed to carry on in his memory.
Many fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to Rossington’s legacy. His contributions to the music world will not be forgotten, and his passing is a reminder of the enduring power of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music