Gary Rossington, lead guitarist and last remaining founding member of the influential American rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, has died at the age of 71. The band’s official Facebook page made the news of his death public without confirming the cause or the location. Tributes and condolences have poured in on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and more.
For the uninitiated, all the other members of the original Lynyrd Skynyrd band died in a plane crash in 1977. The iconic guitarist rebuilt the group with new members to continue their musical legacy. His death marks the end of an era in classic Southern rock, as his guitar practically defined the band’s signature sound.
Fans and artists mourn as Lynyrd Skynyrd’s lead guitarist Gary Rossington passes away, likely cause of death explored
While the cause of his death is yet to be officially revealed, fans of Lynyrd Skynyrd might be familiar with Gary Rossington’s recurring heart problems. The iconic guitarist had suffered a heart attack in October 2015, and also underwent emergency heart surgery in April 2021.
The world lost a true legend. All my love, respect & prayers to the family & loved ones of Gary Rossington. This man was the truth on a guitar, but I’ll never forget how genuine, humble & kind he was not to just me, but my band & my crew every time we crossed paths. @Skynyrd pic.twitter.com/OhA29eEBRn
— Brantley Gilbert (@brantleygilbert) March 6, 2023
Following the plane crash, Gary Rossington became heavily dependent on pain medication, which resulted in a serious drug addiction problem. He fought past tragedy and overcame addiction to continue playing the guitar for Lynyrd Skynyrd with new members.
This cannot be! My heart breaks for Dale Rossington and the entire Skynryd family today.
We have been friends since first touring together in the 70s. We will miss you my friend. Gary Rossington RIP— Peter Frampton (@peterframpton) March 6, 2023
Veteran members of the music community have shared their condolences for Rossington’s death on social media. Since he was the last man standing after bassist Larry Junstrom’s death in 2019, classic rock fans are gutted over the original Lynyrd Skynyrd’s end.
Yesterday we lost our musical brother Gary Rossington, a man we all loved. Our thoughts are with his love Dale, their family and his many friends and fans. I am numb…this cuts deep. – Paul pic.twitter.com/LMZIxAS1pH
— Paul Rodgers (@_paulrodgers) March 6, 2023
My favorite player. His playing was like having another singer – very melodic.
— Better Call Paul (@Wired2Jam) March 6, 2023
Artists from the music fraternity shared their memories of Gary Rossington and how his guitar playing was influential in shaping their individual careers.
Gary Rossington, guitarist and last surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd, has died at age 71.
He played on all 14 Skynyrd studio albums and co-wrote some of their biggest songs, including “Simple Man,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Gimme Back My Bullets” and “What’s Your Name.” pic.twitter.com/VSvSHeMXst— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) March 6, 2023
How Gary Rossington rebuilt Lynyrd Skynyrd after the plane crash
Gary Rossington formed Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1964 along with fellow guitarist Allen Collins and lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant. In 1977, a plane crash claimed the lives of three band members, including Van Zant.
The guitarist himself was severely injured in the crash and required months of physical therapy to recover. In the years that followed, Lynyrd Skynyrd would disband and reunite multiple times, with Rossington serving as a constant presence and guiding force.
Gary had also worked on side projects with other bands that he started such as The Rossington Band and The Rossington Collins Band.
Gary Rossington’s contribution as a guitarist in Lynyrd Skynyrd
One of Gary Rossington’s most iconic contributions to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s sound is his use of the Gibson Les Paul guitar. Known for its thick, warm tone, the guitar became the perfect vehicle for Rossington’s bluesy, soulful playing style.
Rossington’s solos are still a masterclass in Blues-based rock guitar playing. From the iconic frenzied solo in Free Bird to the soulful tune of Simple Man, he added depth and emotion to the band’s powerful lyrics.
He was also a key songwriter, contributing to some of the band’s most beloved tracks, including Tuesday’s Gone, Sweet Home Alabama, and That Smell.
When it comes to Southern rock, few bands have had the impact and longevity of Lynyrd Skynyrd. And at the heart of this band’s success was the late guitarist Gary Rossington, whose riffs and solos became synonymous with the genre.
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