Behind The Music Season 1 Episode 7 Lynyrd Skynyrd
- October 19, 1997
- 53 min
-
7.6 (42)
Behind The Music season 1 episode 7 is all about legendary rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. This hour-long episode takes us behind the scenes of the band's meteoric rise to fame in the 1970s and their tragic downfall just a few short years later.
We start with the early days of Lynyrd Skynyrd, when they were still performing in bars and honky-tonks across the south. The band's unique blend of southern rock and blues quickly caught the attention of music industry insiders, and they were soon signed to a record deal.
The band's first album, "Pronounced Leh-Nerd Skin-Nerd", was a massive success, thanks in large part to the hit single "Free Bird". Suddenly, Lynyrd Skynyrd was one of the biggest bands in the country, playing to sold-out crowds and rubbing elbows with rock royalty.
But with success came excess, and the members of Lynyrd Skynyrd soon found themselves caught up in a whirlwind of drugs, alcohol, and infighting. Lead singer Ronnie Van Zant struggled to keep the band together, but tensions continued to mount.
Tragically, Lynyrd Skynyrd's story came to a sudden and heartbreaking end on October 20, 1977, when a plane carrying the band crashed in a swamp near Gillsburg, Mississippi. The crash claimed the lives of Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and several members of the band's road crew.
Despite their untimely end, Lynyrd Skynyrd's music has continued to resonate with fans around the world. From the iconic guitar riff in "Sweet Home Alabama" to the soulful lyrics of "Tuesday's Gone", their songs have become classics of the rock canon.
In this emotional episode of Behind The Music, we hear from the surviving members of Lynyrd Skynyrd and those who knew them best. Through interviews, archival footage, and rare photos, we get a glimpse into the highs and lows of the band's incredible journey.
We also get a chance to see the impact that Lynyrd Skynyrd has had on music and popular culture. From their rebellious image and hard-hitting sound to their enduring legacy, it's clear that this band's place in history is secure.
Whether you're a die-hard fan of Lynyrd Skynyrd or simply a lover of classic rock, this episode of Behind The Music is a must-see. It's a powerful testament to the enduring power of music and the human spirit, and a fitting tribute to one of the greatest bands of all time.