‘Saturday Night Special’ Makes Its Winterland Debut In One Kickin’ Performance

Lynyrd Skynyrd on MV YouTube Channel

In 1971, a former ice skating rink in San Fransisco was transformed into a new music video. At the time, no one had any idea how many legendary artists would play on that stage. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd was one of those groups. They made their Winterland debut in 1975, and that show went down in history as one of the best to ever take place at that venue. After that memorable first show, Skynyrd decided to come back for a second one the following year.

The success of Skynyrd’s Winterland debut can be attributed to their expertly designed setlist. Their album, Nuthin’ Fancy, had hit the shelves just a month prior, so they made sure to feature some tunes from it in their show. One of those was “Saturday Night Special,” which is now the most recognizable song off of Nuthin’ Fancy. 

That crowd at Skynyrd’s debut Winterland show was one of the first to hear them sing “Saturday Night Special” live. We can only imagine how hyped up they got as Ronnie Van Zant roared through the song, showcasing some of his most powerful vocals ever.

The audience also had to be captivated by the insane showcase of instrumental talent that took place on the stage that day. Every single member of the band was on point, pouring all of their energy into their new song in the hopes that everyone would enjoy it.

Based on the crowd’s enthusiastic cheers and applause once Skynyrd wrapped up, we can tell that they more than enjoyed it…they loved it! Of course, that comes as no surprise to us now, because “Saturday Night Special” has only gotten better with time.

Go ahead and scroll down below to check out Skynyrd’s kickin’ Winterland performance of “Saturday Night Special!”

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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