Lynyrd Skynyrd lives on. Following the death of the last surviving member and guitarist Gary Rossington, his widow Dale says they'll continue.
She says, "I recently lost my husband and partner of over 41 years. He was an amazing father, grandfather, brother and friend, but most importantly was a world class musician and songwriter. It's been my honor and privilege to share the stage with him for all these years. His music touched so many millions of people around the world, and Gary was always the first to say how, 'Skynyrd's music is bigger than me or any one person.'”
She added, "Gary made it known at every chance to express how timeless the music was, and it was always his goal to keep the music alive for his brothers because that was always their dream. He spent his entire life trying to carry on that dream for Ronnie [Van Zant], Allen [Collins], Steve [Gaines] and all the others over the years. While he was not able to physically be on stage with the current lineup over the last couple years, he supported them in every way. His dream will continue thanks to Johnny [Van Zant], Rickey [Medlocke] and the rest of our bandmates to continue to carry his legacy and music on for future generations."
Johnny Van Zant said, "Gary was not only my brother, bandmate and friend. I think he loved me as much as I loved him. We would do anything for each other. We laughed, we fell, we cried and made up, and shared the stage for the last 36 years.”
He added, Gary, along with my brother Ronnie and Allen started this band and left us all a legacy of music that has stood the test of time, and crossed three generations of fans. The music they created, and the music we created, together since 1987, was always meant to be experienced live. We have come together with the founding band member estates, and everyone involved, and feel the music should continue for everyone to love and enjoy. So we will continue to perform for the Skynyrd nation."
Ronnie's widow Judy said, "I cannot say with certainty what those who have passed on would want us to do, but I do know what Gary wanted. And I know what the fans want. To show our undying love for those who are no longer with us and to pay tribute to them, the music will continue. The Lynyrd Skynyrd family is unified in this decision.”
Rossington's final performance with the band was November 13th, 2022 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.It will air on Encore in June and screen in movie theaters across the country, then PBS will pick it up in August.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]