Nephews Of Ronnie Van Zant Prove That Family Talent Is Deeply Rooted
on Feb 16, 2016
There is a reason Jacksonville, Florida produces some of the best talent in the Southern rock genre. Have you ever wondered why?
Case in point: Ronnie Van Zant and his relatives.
It doesn’t take long to see that the family roots in music run far and wide. After the founding member of Lynyrd Skynyrd lost his life in the tragic 1977 plane crash, it was his younger brother Johnny Van Zant who stepped up as lead vocalist for the band.
But the talent doesn’t end there. Ronnie was also the older brother of the founder and vocalist of 38 Special, Donnie Van Zant, the father of singer Tammy Van Zant, and cousin of musician Jimmie Van Zant. With so much talent in one place, a family tree diagram would be helpful, right?
Luckily we are zoning in on two brothers who are not mentioned above. Yes, the family tree continues to expand! Robbie Morris and Ronnie Morris are the nephews of the late Ronnie, Donnie and Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special, and The Johnny Van Zant Band. It isn’t hard to imagine that all of these influential bands came from the same roots, and the best part is, it’s true.
Both Robbie and Ronnie feel connected to the foundation in music that was laid before them. Robbie learned drums at the age of ten and began a professional career at just 14-years old. Ronnie was presented with his first guitar at the age of eight from his uncle Ronnie, for whom he was named after. Many refer to the musician as “Lil” Ronnie. From the very start they were destined to follow in their uncle’s footsteps.
The brothers had careers apart for many years until they eventually reconnected for their Shanytown. Shanytown carried on the family tradition of originality, creativity, and the blend of all genres. Whether you’re a fan of Southern rock, rock, or country you’ll love this legacy of the Van Zant family.
Listen to Shanytown’s “Lost Souls” below. See if you can hear the family resemblance.
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