Review LYNYRD SKYNYRD “Celebrating 50 Years – Live at the Ryman”

If you haven’t been living under a rock for the last 50 years, the name of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd won’t be new to you. Originally formed in 1964 as My Backyard, the Southern Rock band became Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1968. Their debut album, released in 1973, launched an impressive career. They evolved into trailblazers of Southern Rock, and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their debut album, the band played a show at the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. The show took place in November 2022 and featured a few extras and special moments.

First and foremost, it was the final performance by founding member Gary Rossington, who sadly passed away a year later. Secondly, no anniversary would be complete without guests, and Lynyrd Skynyrd invited several. With a blistering guitar solo, the band welcomed John Osborne as a guest on stage for the second song. And there would be more to come. Marcus King, Jelly Roll, Donnie Van Zant and Brent Smith all enjoyed contributing to this night of rock. And there is the powerful version of the J.J. Cale song “Call Me the Breeze”.

The hit “Sweet Home Alabama” ended the regular set, and “Free Bird” concluded a special night of Southern Rock. The good news for fans who couldn’t attend is that the show is now being released on 2CD/DVD, Blu-ray and double LP. With good sound quality and an authentic feel, the release is a great summary of 50 years of Lynyrd Skynyrd.