‘Saturday Night Special’ Undergoes A Major Makeover In Gritty Acoustic Performance

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In 1994, Lynyrd Skynyrd released what is likely their most unique album that exists. Called Endangered Species, the album stands out from the others in Skynyrd’s collection because it features primarily acoustic instruments. 

As a rock band who became known for their powerful sound thanks to their triple guitar attack, fans were curious as to what an acoustic Skynyrd album would sound like. Well the answer is…it sounds awesome! 

Endangered Species included new material crafted specifically for the album along with reinventions of Skynyrd’s classic hits. One song that got transformed into an acoustic masterpiece was 1975’s “Saturday Night Special.” While acoustic recordings of the song are easily found, live footage of Skynyrd’s acoustic performances are much more rare.

But there is a clip out there of Skynyrd performing “Saturday Night Special” acoustic style in Atalanta, Georgia. Instead of storming the stage in their traditional fashion, everyone in the band sat on a line of chairs close to the audience, with lead singer Johnny Van Zant positioned front and center.

However, don’t get us wrong. This may have been an acoustic-style performance, but it was still a huge jam session. In fact, this more stripped-down version of “Saturday Night Special” seems to contain just as much grit, if not more than the original.

The performance also gave Johnny and his voice the chance to stand out and soar. He can be heard more clear than ever, powering through every word with fire in his voice.

If you’re a huge fan of Skynyrd’s music, but you’ve never listened to any of their acoustic stuff before, then this is the performance you should watch. It’s interesting to hear the band’s alternate take on one of their classic songs. Soon, you won’t be able to decide which version is your favorite!

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s ‘Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd & Second Helping Live’ is available now on DVD, Blu-ray and digital formats – it’s the perfect gift for the Lynyrd Skynyrd fan in your life. Buy it here on Amazon!