(Artist Update)

Written by: Ginny Gaines   

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s new release, Celebrating 50 Years – Live at the iconic Ryman Auditorium, is a live concert album and video that was recorded in 2022 at the famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. It came out on June 27, 2025, and marks 50 years since the band began. This live show is especially meaningful because it includes the last performance by Gary Rossington, the band's original guitarist, before he passed away in March 2023.

The show includes 15 of the band's biggest songs, plus the documentary. There are also special guest performers who joined the band on stage that include Jelly Roll sings on “Tuesday’s Gone," Marcus King plays on “Saturday Night Special," John Osborne (from Brothers Osborne) joins for “Workin’ for MCA," Brent Smith (from Shinedown) helps out on “Simple Man," and Donnie Van Zant (brother of Ronnie and Johnny Van Zant) appears on “Red White and Blue."

This concert was the last time Lynyrd Skynyrd played live with Gary Rossington, the band’s original guitarist. Gary helped start the band way back in 1964. He stuck with it through good times and tough ones, including a tragic plane crash in 1977 that killed some of his closest friends. Gary survived the plane crash with multiple injuries, broken arms, a broken leg, and a punctured stomach and liver. - He kept the music alive by helping bring the band back in the late '80s, and before he passed, he was training guitarist Damon Johnson to carry on that signature Skynyrd sound.

Gary joined the band partway through the concert, kicking off with the song “That Smell.” When they played “Freebird,” they had to restart because of tech issues. It was kind of emotional, since Gary was famous for playing the iconic slide guitar on that track.Most of the songs came from the early days of the band, which made the whole night feel like a trip back in time. - Gary told the band before he passed that he wanted them to keep going after he was gone and not to let Lynyrd Skynyrd fade away.

So that’s exactly what they’re doing. Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke said they’re honoring Gary’s wishes, keeping Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music alive for old fans and new ones alike. Live at the Ryman is more than just a concert, it's a tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd's long legacy. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering them, this live album is a powerful reminder of their music, history, and influence. With great performances, emotional moments, and a fitting sendoff for Gary Rossington, this release is a must-have for fans of Southern rock.

Fly High Gary!! You may be gone but you will not be forgotten!!

That's a wrap for my update on Lynyrd Skynyrd...In closing, please just know, Soundwave Music Media will be here and I will always do my best to bring you the rock music report! Please consider supporting me and the crew by purchasing a Soundwave shirt or hat and support our sponsors! Rock On! Until next time...🤘

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