Inside Story

Lynyrd Skynyrd is keeping its flame alive—just the way Gary Rossington wanted. Before his passing in March 2023, the founding guitarist made it clear to bandmates Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke: the music must live on.

Now, the band is doing just that with the release of Celebrating 50 Years – Live at the Ryman, a live recording from Rossington’s final performance in November 2022. Originally taped for PBS, the concert captures Skynyrd’s enduring spirit and serves as a poignant farewell to its last original member.

“Gary mentored Damon [Johnson], he knew his time was coming,” said Van Zant. “He wanted this band to carry on.”

The album, recorded at Nashville’s storied Ryman Auditorium, wasn’t intended for release—but the band felt fans deserved it. Medlocke called the night “real casual, real special,” and believes Rossington would be proud.

As they continue to tour, Skynyrd’s mission is clear: honor their fallen brothers through the music. “Gary’s spirit is all over that stage,” Medlocke said. “We play for the fans—8 to 80 years old—because these songs still mean something.”

The legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd lives on, louder and prouder than ever.

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