The year was 1973. A group of young Florida rockers had achieved the one thing all aspiring artists dream about. They recorded and released their first album. It was the album that would start it all for the group of young men…an album that would establish a lasting legacy that remains 44 years later.
Called (pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd), the album marked the debut of Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, a name that you surely know how to pronounce by now. To say that Skynyrd made an impact on the music industry with Pronounced is an understatement. They solidified a place in history for years and years to come, thanks to some powerful tracks that remain iconic anthems.
We could name off the album’s full tracklist here, because each and every song is a work of art. But to save time, we’ll just leave you with the names of a few of the album’s most recognizable songs…”Gimme Three Steps,” “Simple Man,” and…”Free Bird.”
Every single track on the album was written by lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, with the other band members also receiving writing credits on various songs. When you consider the fact that Skynyrd wrote all of their own songs, Pronounced suddenly becomes all the more remarkable.
Apparently, Rolling Stone agreed, because it placed Pronounced on its detailed ranking of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list in 2003. Skynyrd came in at number 403 with Pronounced, with Rolling Stone describing the album as such:
“From the git-go, these Southern rockers played hard, lived hard and shot from the hip (with three guitars!). Discovered and produced by Al Kooper, Skynyrd offered taut rockers including ‘Poison Whiskey’ and the ultimate anthem, ‘Free Bird.'”
Honestly, is it any surprise that Pronounced landed a spot on Rolling Stone‘s list? Knowing how much incredible music is on that album, we aren’t surprised in the slightest. Tune in below to watch the band perform the album’s legendary anthem, “Free Bird.”
We have a feeling that 44 more years from now, Pronounced will still maintain its distinction as one of the best albums in history.
Lynyrd Skynyrd is hitting the road this summer and coming to a city near you – don’t miss your chance to see them LIVE! Tickets always sell out fast for such a legendary band, get yours now by clicking here!
