Lynyrd Skynyrd Releases Live Version of Iconic Hit “Sweet Home Alabama”
Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd have just released a live version of their iconic hit, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The new single and music video mark the second release from their upcoming live album and DVD, “Celebrating 50 Years – Live At The Ryman” (Frontiers Music SRL), which captures the legendary southern rock band’s historic 50th-anniversary concert at Nashville’s revered venue. The new release will be available worldwide on June 27, 2025.
The forthcoming album showcases the band’s unparalleled energy and their signature blend of blues rock and Southern hard rock swagger, standing as a celebration of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s enduring legacy in music history. The recording features special guest appearances by Jelly Roll, Marcus King, John Osborne (The Brothers Osborne), Brent Smith (Shinedown), and Donnie Van Zant (Van Zant & .38 Special).
This special release carries profound significance as it features the final performance of founding member Gary Rossington. Less than five months before his death in March 2023, Rossington—the last surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd—expressed his heartfelt wish that the band’s music would continue to be performed even after his passing. True to form, the band remains a driving force in rock, honouring their roots while introducing their signature sound to new generations of fans.
With over 28 million records sold in the U.S. and a sound as iconic as the American culture it celebrates, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to inspire fans of all ages while embodying the very essence of Southern rock. From their humble Jacksonville beginnings through tragedy, reunion, and redemption, the band has earned its rightful place on Rolling Stone’s list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time”—as well as a cherished spot in the hearts of generations.
Originally formed in 1964 as “My Backyard,” the band evolved into Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1968, with a lineup featuring Ronnie Van Zant (vocals), Gary Rossington (guitar), Allen Collins (guitar), Larry Junstrom (bass), and Bob Burns (drums). Their 1973 debut album introduced the world to their unmistakable blend of blues, country, and hard rock. Hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and the timeless “Free Bird” solidified their status as pioneers of the genre.
At the height of their success in 1977, a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup vocalist Cassie Gaines, leaving the music world in shock. Despite this unimaginable loss, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s legacy endured, and their music remained a beacon of Southern rock.
In 1987, the band reformed with Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny Van Zant, taking over as lead vocalist. Lynyrd Skynyrd continued to tour and record, with guitarist Rickey Medlocke returning to the fold in 1996. Though founding member Gary Rossington’s passing in 2023 marked the end of an era, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s influence remains stronger than ever. Their enduring music, spirit, and legacy will forever stand as a testament to the power of rock and roll.
“This is all about the music and keeping it alive and keeping those guys alive through the music,” says Johnny Van Zant. “People want to hear it, and they want to hear it played live. I have people all the time saying, ‘Thank you for carrying it on so we can experience it.'”
Adds Rickey Medlocke: “Gary expressed many times his wishes that the music didn’t perish with him, that the legacy of the music would continue, not just on the radio or TV or in soundtracks but for the band to take it to the fans, go out and make sure that we delivered it 100 percent. That’s what we do.”
