Another of the members of the legendary powerhouse of 70's Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd has died. Although I have no photos, I have many memories of this band, (seeing them in their re-configured "reunion" line-up in 1987 and 1991) their eternal music and the one and only Billy Powell. Beginning as a roady for the band in 1971, Billy officially joined as keyboardist in 1972, adding his rockabilly style to the triple guitar sound Skynyrd became known for. A solid player, Billy was more then just a backing harmony to the all out raw sound produced by front members Billy Powell, Gary Rossington, and Ed King (later replaced by fated guitarist Steve Gaines). He became a prominent and essential part of the Skynyrd sound and his passing not only writes another page in the history of the the age of the monster bands, it also adds another black stain on one of the most tragic musical outfits in the history of rock. Loosing lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backing singer and sister Cassie Gaines in 1977, the classic era of the band ended, taking a 10 year hiatus until their return in 1987. Guitarist Allen Collins ironically was paralyzed in a car accident the year prior and was only able to be part of the grand return as a side show token honour, wheeled out just before Freebird to a somewhat shocked and saddened applause. He died of pneumonia in 1990. Bassist Leon Wilkeson was found dead of emphysema and chronic liver failure in 2001. Of all the members of the "Golden Era" of Lynyrd Skynyrd, now only Gary Rossington remains to hold the Confederate flag high. Billy, may you enjoy playing those opening notes to Freebird again...up there...back with the good ol' boys.
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