My Lynyrd Skynyrd

SEED OR WE ALL DIE!!!

BAND HISTORY1964Ronnie Van Zant hits a line drive that strikes Bob Burns in the head, who was watching the game with Gary Rossington. Burns is knocked unconscious but the three became friends and have a common interest in music. They soon form a band along with Allen Collins and Larry Junstrom. That fall 'The Noble Five' plays their first gig for $10.1965The core of Lynyrd Skynyrd- singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Gary Rossington, guitarist Allen Collins, bassist Leon Wilkeson, and drummer Bob Burns- is formed at a high school in Jacksonville, FL, initially as the group, 'My Backyard.' The name is later changed to Lynyrd Skynyrd to immortalize school gym teacher Leonard Skinner, a legendary antagonist of longhaired students. Ronnie Van Zant enters into a brief marriage with Nadine.1966Ronnie and Nadine's daughter, Tammy Michelle is born.1968Lynyrd Skynyrd records 'Michelle' and 'Need All My Friends.' The latter is released as their debut single on Shade Tree Records, a label based in their hometown.1969Lynyrd Skynyrd wins a battle of the bands contest in Hemming Park located in Jacksonville, FL. Lacy Van Zant (Ronnie's father) drives the band to Atlanta to record two songs as the prize. They record 'Spoonful' and 'Michelle.' Lacy also gives them $120 for a Bogan PA for vocals.1970Allen Collins marries Kathy Johns.......