• This Moment in Music History for 10-20-2024

  • Oct 20 2024
  • Length: 2 mins
  • Podcast

This Moment in Music History for 10-20-2024

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  • Summary

  • On October 20th in music history, one significant event took place in 1977 when the legendary rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd suffered a tragic plane crash in Mississippi. The crash claimed the lives of lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, and several others.

    Lynyrd Skynyrd was at the peak of their success, having released their iconic album "Street Survivors" just three days prior to the incident. The album featured the hit single "That Smell," which eerily foreshadowed the band's fate with its lyrics about the dangers of substance abuse and living life on the edge.

    The plane, a Convair CV-300, ran out of fuel and crashed into a heavily wooded area near Gillsburg, Mississippi. The accident occurred shortly after 6 PM, following a performance at the Greenville Memorial Auditorium in Greenville, South Carolina. The band was en route to their next show at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge.

    Survivors of the crash, including guitarist Gary Rossington, bassist Leon Wilkeson, and keyboardist Billy Powell, were seriously injured and had to undergo extensive medical treatment. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the music community and left fans devastated.

    Lynyrd Skynyrd's music, known for its gritty, Southern rock sound and powerful storytelling, continues to influence generations of musicians. Songs like "Free Bird," "Simple Man," and "Sweet Home Alabama" have become anthems that define the genre.

    October 20th, 1977, will forever be remembered as a dark day in music history, marking the loss of one of rock's most iconic and influential bands. Despite the tragedy, Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy lives on through their timeless music and the indelible mark they left on the world of rock and roll.
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