Gary Rossington, the last surviving original member and original guitarist for the rock band Lynard Skynard, passed away at the age of 71 yesterday.
Rossington was among the Lynard Skynard band members inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 and contributed to many hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.”
The group took to Facebook announcing the news.
“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today.
Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does.”
Country music stars also took to social media to pay homage.
Travis Tritt
I just learned that my dear friend, Gary Rossington passed away today. I’m heartbroken! Gary was not only a friend, but a collaborator that wrote songs with me and played guitar with me in studio recordings and onstage so many times. My heart goes out to Dale and the girls. RIP🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/BuTEIdDaR2
— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) March 6, 2023
Charlie Daniels
"It's all right now, keep on singin' loud.
— Charlie Daniels (@CharlieDaniels) March 6, 2023
It's all right now, heaven should be proud" - Charlie Daniels 1979
The last of the Free Birds has flown home. RIP Gary Rossington, God Bless the Lynyrd @Skynyrd band. Prayers to Dale and the rest of his family. - CD, Jr. & Hazel Daniels pic.twitter.com/EoYXrLFjAh
The Oak Ridge Boys
Our hearts go out tonight to our brothers in @Skynyrd …. Legendary guitarist Garry Rossington has passed … pic.twitter.com/wTJnTdjYmg
— The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) March 6, 2023
The cause of death is unknown at this time.
Story via AP News
