LYNYRD SKYNYRD’s Future: New Music and Legacy
Possibility of New Music
In a recent interview with Riff X’s “Metal XS,” LYNYRD SKYNYRD’s guitarist Rickey Medlocke and lead singer Johnny Van Zant discussed the exciting potential for new music from the storied rock band. Johnny revealed, “We have songs that we wrote with Gary [Rossington, the late LYNYRD SKYNYRD guitarist] that we never recorded.” Medlocke added, “We discovered [these songs] shortly after Gary’s passing… we found about 30 songs that Gary had worked on with Johnny and myself. You could hear him talking on the tapes about lyrics and all that stuff. Johnny and I started talking about possibly doing another LYNYRD SKYNYRD record that includes Gary’s songs.”
A Tribute to Gary Rossington
Medlocke expressed his enthusiasm for a new album, noting its significance as a tribute to Rossington. “I think it’s needed or wanted. We should put out new music, like we’ve been doing all these past years,” he remarked. The guitarist emphasized the importance of honoring Gary’s legacy through the music they create, saying, “I promised him that I would be here until the last note of ‘Free Bird’ was played. So here I am.”
Innovative Release Strategies
As they consider the future of LYNYRD SKYNYRD’s music, Medlocke hinted at a departure from traditional album releases. “I have a thing about putting out whole albums now,” he stated, suggesting that releasing singles one at a time might be more effective in today’s music landscape. This approach not only allows for greater fan engagement but also creates a collection of songs over time.
Longevity and Inspiration
Discussing the longevity of LYNYRD SKYNYRD, Medlocke compared their journey to that of legendary bands like The Rolling Stones. He expressed his determination to keep the band’s spirit alive: “If THE ROLLING STONES can do it, we can do it.” Medlocke’s deep respect for Rossington and the band’s history fuels his commitment to their ongoing legacy.
Reflecting on Their Journey
LYNYRD SKYNYRD has faced numerous challenges throughout their career, including the tragic plane crash in 1977 that claimed the lives of four band members. Despite these hardships, the band has persevered. “We have the history; I played on the first recording sessions. We know we have to portray the music with integrity and love,” Medlocke stated, underscoring the band’s dedication to their craft.
Upcoming Collaborations and Tours
Looking ahead, LYNYRD SKYNYRD and FOREIGNER have announced a co-headlining tour scheduled for Summer 2026. The “Double Trouble Double Vision Tour” will kick off on July 23 in Atlanta, Georgia, and conclude on August 29 in Rogers, Arkansas. This collaboration promises to deliver a memorable experience for fans of classic rock.
Conclusion
The future of LYNYRD SKYNYRD is filled with promise as the band explores the possibility of new music and prepares for upcoming tours. With a commitment to honoring Gary Rossington’s legacy and an innovative approach to music releases, fans can look forward to more from this iconic band. As they navigate the next chapter, LYNYRD SKYNYRD continues to embody the spirit of rock and roll.
FAQs
Will LYNYRD SKYNYRD release a new album soon?
While no official release date has been set, discussions about new music featuring unreleased songs by Gary Rossington are currently underway.
What is the significance of the new music for the band?
The new music aims to honor the legacy of Gary Rossington and reflect the band’s journey, incorporating songs he wrote or co-wrote.
How is the band planning to release new music?
Rickey Medlocke suggested the possibility of releasing singles one at a time instead of a full album, allowing for greater engagement with fans.
When is the next LYNYRD SKYNYRD tour?
The “Double Trouble Double Vision Tour” with FOREIGNER is set for Summer 2026, starting on July 23 in Atlanta, Georgia.
