Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s immense legacy was built on incredible guitar work. Over the years, the band became known for what is called a triple guitar attack, and would have a total of three guitarists playing on stage at the same time.
The triple guitar attack led to the creation of Skynyrd’s signature sound, which is why they still continue to maintain a three guitar lineup to this day. Currently, Skynyrd’s guitar lineup consists of Mark “Sparky” Matejka, Rickey Medlocke, and founding member Gary Rossington.
Back in 2009, Skynyrd’s three guitarists were preparing for the release of their 13th studio album, God & Guns. The album was an emotional one for the group, since three of its members passed away before it was released: guitarist Hughie Thomasson, bass player Ean Evans, and keyboard player Billy Powell.
Before he passed away, Hughie helped write many of the songs on the album, including its first single “Still Unbroken.” The song perfectly captured the pain Skynyrd had gone through while making the album, with lyrics such as “Broken bones, broken hearts/Stripped down and torn apart/A little bit of rust – I’m still runnin’.”
Of course, no Skynyrd song would have its punch of power without the stellar instrumental work, particularly from its three guitarists. During an interview with Guitar World about God & Guns, Sparky, Rickey, and Gary picked up their guitars and started to play “Still Unbroken.” But what happened next was truly remarkable.
One by one, each of Skynyrd’s guitarists started to break down their parts, as they explained their personal technique and how their part blended with the other two. Eventually, they pieced all of their parts back together again, showing the detailed process that goes into crafting their signature sound.
You can watch the full interview and playing session here to see the magic unfold before your eyes. Then, enjoy watching Skynyrd perform “Still Unbroken” live in the video below.
