How Did Gary Rossington React When He Heard Skynyrd On The Radio For The First Time?

Michael Wilson via jacksonville.com

Every artist has that moment, when after years of hard work, they hear one of their songs playing on the radio for the first time. For many, such a moment is an indication they have finally “made it” in the music industry. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s guitarist, Gary Rossington, knows the feeling well. During an interview with Planet Jackson Hole in August 2014 he recalled the first time he heard a Skynyrd song play on the radio. It was their first single from their debut album, called “I Ain’t the One.”

That was an exciting time – the first time we ever heard our song on the radio,” he said. “It was in the ’70s and we were driving down the street and we heard it come on. We pulled over and just listened. We were like little kids, jumping all around.”

The moment was an extra special one for Gary, since he also helped co-write the song along with lead singer Ronnie Van Zant.

Since then, Skynyrd has placed dozens of their songs on the radio, and many stations continue to play their classic hits such as “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama” today. Now, Gary’s grandchildren get to listen to Skynyrd’s songs on the radio, and experience the same sense of joy he did when he heard “I Ain’t the One” for the first time.

They love to hear ‘Alabama,’“he revealed. “They hear it and say, ‘That’s grandma and grandpa.

After all this time, Gary is thrilled that Skynyrd is able to share their music with a whole new generation. With songs such as “Sweet Home Alabama,” we know that Skynyrd isn’t disappearing off of our radios any time soon.

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!

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