Former Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer and other colleagues share their condolences

Gary Rossington, an original member of Grammy Hall of Fame Award-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band Lynyrd Skynyrd, died on Sunday, March 5th at age 71. Rossington survived the tragic 1977 plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Steve Gaines, as well as backup vocalist Cassie Gaines (Steve’s sister), assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick, pilot Walter McCreary, and co-pilot John Gray.

“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter, and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today,” the legendary group shared over the weekend. “Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty like he always does. Please keep Dale, Mary, Annie, and the entire Rossington family in your prayers and respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.”

The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 by Kid Rock, and is known worldwide for their signature hits such as “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Simple Man,” “That Smell,” “Gimme Three Steps,” and nine-minute southern rock anthem, “Free Bird.”

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Member and former Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Artimus Pyle shares heartfelt recollection of his brother of the road.

“Gary’s place in music history is rock solid. He will be missed forever. Fly on fly high, our ‘Free Bird’ brother,” Pyle says.

Other friends and colleagues of Lynyrd Skynyrd have also shared their thoughts on Rossington.