Gary Rossington.Photo: Scott Dudelson/Getty Images
Lynyrd SkynyrdguitaristGary Rossingtonhas died. He was 71.
The Southern rock band, of which Rossington was the last surviving founding member,announced the news of his death in a statementshared on their Facebook page Sunday.
“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 band began.
“Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does,” the group continued. “Please keep Dale, Mary, Annie and the entire Rossington family in your prayers and respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.”
No cause of death was given, though Rossington previously dealt with various heart problems throughout the years, includingemergency heart surgery in 2021.
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Gary Rossington in 1976.Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
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Lynyrd Skynyrd was formed during summer 1964 in Jacksonville, Florida, where a young Rossington, Ronnie Van Zant andBob Burnsmet whilecompeting on rival baseball teams, according to the band’s website.
Rossington contributed to many of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s most famous songs, including “Sweet Home Alabama” and"Free Bird.“He was among the members of the group who were inducted into theRock & Roll Hall of Famein 2006.
The guitarist’s death comes fivemonths before Lynyrd Skynyrd is set to embark on its The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour alongsideZZ Topon July 21.
Lynyrd Skynyrd circa 1976.MCA/Chris Walter/Getty Images
“I just learned that my dear friend, Gary Rossington passed away today. I’m heartbroken!” wrote musicianTravis Tritt. “Gary wasnot only a friend, but a collaborator that wrote songs with meand played guitar with me in studio recordings and onstage so many times.”
He added, “My heart goes out to Dale and the girls. RIP.”
“He was not only an exceptional guitarist and songwriter, but he was one of the coolest, kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet over the years,” he continued.
source: people.com
