Although it never found its way onto the charts following its initial release, Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s 1974 single “Don’t Ask Me No Questions” has gone on to become one of their most memorable songs. The song started to catch on because of its well-written lyrics and rockin’ instrumentals, and today it can frequently be heard playing on rock radio stations all around the world.
“Don’t Ask Me No Questions” was featured as the third track on Skynyrd’s Double Platinum-certified album Second Helping. The song was written by guitarist Gary Rossington and lead singer Ronnie Van Zant on a fishing trip, and was inspired by their own lives.
When they first got their start, Skynyrd developed the image of being a group of common people who simply came together to make music. But it was some time before anyone took them seriously, and many people ignored them as they made their way up the ladder to success. Of course, once Skynyrd became successful, these same people came crawling to them with requests for favors and recognition.
“Don’t Ask Me No Questions” is meant to serve as a message to those who turned their backs on Skynyrd during their early years, and acknowledged them only after they became famous. This message comes through strong in the first two lines, as Ronnie sings “Well every time that I come home nobody wants to let me be/It seems that all the friends I got just got to come interrogate me.“
In 1974, Skynyrd made an appearance on After Dark in promotion of Second Helping, where they performed “Sweet Home Alabama” along with “Don’t Ask Me No Questions.” What makes the footage from Skynyrd’s After Dark appearance truly special is the fact that it was shot in full color. It is a rare thing to be able to find full color footage of the band at such an early stage, which is why this is one clip you can’t skip out on watching!
Check out Skynyrd’s performance of of “Don’t Ask Me No Questions” in full color below!
Lynyrd Skynyrd is hitting the road one last time and coming to a city near you this spring – don’t miss your chance to say goodbye! Tickets WILL sell out fast for this legendary final tour, get yours now by clicking here!
