Gary Rossington Biography

 

Gary Rossington

Gary Rossington is a musician and founding member of the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. He was born on December 4, 1951, in Jacksonville, Florida, USA.

Rossington is primarily a guitarist, but he has also played other instruments, including the slide guitar, bass guitar, and harmonica. He formed Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1964 with Ronnie Van Zant, Allen Collins, Larry Junstrom, and Bob Burns. The band became famous for hits such as "Sweet Home Alabama," "Free Bird," and "Simple Man."

In 1977, tragedy struck Lynyrd Skynyrd when a plane crash killed Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and several other members of the band's crew. Rossington survived the crash but suffered severe injuries.

After the plane crash, Rossington took a break from music and didn't play again until 1987, when he formed the Rossington Band. He also participated in Lynyrd Skynyrd reunions in the 1980s and 1990s, and the band continues to perform today.

In addition to his work with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rossington has released several solo albums and has collaborated with other musicians, including the band Blackfoot.