Lynyrd Skynyrd, the legendary Southern rock band, might not be famous for their studio collaborations, but they sure know how to rock the stage with some remarkable live performances.
Check out the five of their best live collaborations that have left audiences cheering for more.
“Free Bird” with Charlie Daniels Band
Lynyrd Skynyrd faced a tragic plane crash in 1977 that took the lives of several band members. It wasn’t until a decade later, under the guidance of Ronnie Van Zant’s brother, Johnny Van Zant, that they officially reformed. But just 15 months after the crash, they made a powerful return at the Charlie Daniels Band’s Volunteer Jam V. Teaming up with CDB and other artists, they performed “Free Bird” for the first time since the accident, marking an emotional and memorable moment in their history.
“Sweet Home Alabama” with Donnie Van Zant
In 1976, Lynyrd Skynyrd rocked the Fox Theatre in Atlanta for three consecutive nights. These epic shows became their live album, “One More for the Road,” and helped save the historic venue from demolition. Nearly thirty years later, during the “Lyve at the Fox” concert in 1993, Johnny Van Zant surprised the crowd by introducing his brother, Donnie Van Zant, who joined in for a raucous rendition of “Sweet Home Alabama.”
“All Summer Long” and “Sweet Home Alabama” with Kid Rock
Kid Rock brought us the hit “All Summer Long” in 2008 by cleverly mixing Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” with other classics. Kid Rock and Lynyrd Skynyrd had a history of collaboration, with a 2003 joint version of “Gimme Back My Bullets.” Their reunion at Fashion Rocks in 2008 delighted fans as they performed “Sweet Home Alabama” together, creating a feel-good atmosphere.
“Country Must Be Country Wide” with Brantley Gilbert
In 2015, Lynyrd Skynyrd teamed up with country star Brantley Gilbert for an episode of CMT Crossroads. While they belted out the iconic “Sweet Home Alabama,” they also ventured beyond their comfort zone to sing Gilbert’s hit “Country Must Be Country Wide.” This collaboration showcased the band’s versatility and their ability to harmonize with different musical styles.
“Sweet Home Alabama” with 3 Doors Down, Hank Williams Jr., and Bo Bice
In 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd took over Atlantic City’s Etess Arena for a special performance during VH1 Classic’s Decades Rock Live! concert series. They shared the stage with artists they had influenced, including 3 Doors Down, Hank Williams Jr., and Bo Bice. Together, they rocked the crowd with unforgettable renditions of “Call Me the Breeze” and, yes, “Sweet Home Alabama.” This epic performance was captured as “Live in Atlantic City,” a testament to the enduring appeal of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music.