In 1991, Lynyrd Skynyrd released their first studio album since the plane crash of 1977. Appropriately titled Lynyrd Skynyrd 1991, the album contained a treasure trove of original music that Skynyrd fans had been waiting years for.
One of the tracks on the album was the fiery song “Backstreet Crawler,” which was written by guitarists Randall Hall, Ed King, and Gary Rossington.
The song tells the story of a man who had it all, but lost everything and ended up on the streets. In such an environment, the former Wall Street man turned to violence and lost everything that was once important to him, singing “I guess you might say it sure is a shame/I used to have everything oh how my life has changed.“
During their short tour in support of their album, Skynyrd stopped by several places in Germany in 1992. The typical setlist for their tour included “Backstreet Crawler” at the end of each show, with “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird” following it. Of course, Skynyrd made sure to perform “Backstreet Crawler” during their Germany concerts, and one of their performances was captured on film.
Since “Backstreet Crawler” was written by Skynyrd’s three guitarists, it’s no surprise their performance is jam-packed with magnificent guitar solos. Other members of the band also get their own solo moments. At one point, bassist Leon Wilkeson steps up front and center to entertain the crowd with his mad skills, while keyboardist Billy Powell can be heard rocking it out toward the end of the song.
This is one of the best showcases of Skynyrd’s instrumental power that we’ve ever seen. What makes it all the more special is the fact that it is uncommon to find live footage of Skynyrd performing “Backstreet Crawler.” But we have a clip right here for you, so you should check it out below!
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!
