Billy Powell of Lynyrd Skynyrd Passes Away
Billy Powell, 56, of the legendary southern rock band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, has died. A local news paper reports that Powell died Wednesday at his home in Orange Park, Florida.
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s web site has this entry:
“Beloved Pianist for the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band, Billy Powell, passed away last night. The family and band request your respect and understanding during this difficult time. Thank you. ”
Powell joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1972 following a stint as one of the band’s roadies. He was on the plane that crashed in 1977, taking the lives of singer Ronnie Van Zant and seven other people. Powell was seriously hurt in the accident.
Billy Powell joined Lynyrd Skynyrd after Johnny Van Zant heard him play an introduction to “Free Bird” during a rehearsal time. He had performed with the group as recently as this month, when the remaining members went on a four-day cruise. A new album and three-state tour was in the works but will now be cancelled.
Powell was one of only two Lynyrd Skynyrd members in the band since the plane crash. He was married with four children.
Lynyrd Skynyrd is know for their signature southern rock sound with country and blues influences that tended to be heavier and more guitar driven than their contemporaries such a The Marshall Tucker Band and Molly Hatchet. Their original frontman and primary song writer, Johnny Van Zant, is considered by many to be one of the greatest song writers in rock music. Important song from Lynyrd Skynard are “Free Bird,” “That Smell,” ” Ballad of Curtis Lowe,” “Saturday Night Special,” and “Gimme Back My Bullets” among others.
To learn more about Lynyrd Skynyrd and Billy Powell visit these links: