Southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd recently celebrated their monumental 50th anniversary in style at Jiffy Lube Live, delivering a performance that was both a testament to their legacy and a heartfelt tribute to their fallen bandmates. For fans who braved the September chill, the concert was a showcase of everything that makes Skynyrd one of the most beloved bands in rock history.
With singer Johnny Van Zant at the helm, the band kicked off their set with a rollicking version of “Workin’ for MCA,” setting the tone for an evening filled with both nostalgia and high-octane rock at Jiffy Lube Live on Sept. 8.
Van Zant’s voice, though seasoned with time, still had the grit and emotion that fans have come to expect. His stage presence, combined with the band’s tight musicianship, made for an electrifying show.
The setlist was a journey through Skynyrd’s extensive music catalog. Classic hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Gimme Three Steps” were met with ecstatic cheers from the crowd, who sang along to every word.
Watch Lynyrd Skynyrd play “Sweet Home Alabama” live for CMA Fest 2024 via YouTube:
The visual aspect of the show was as impressive as the musical performance. The stage setup featured striking light displays and video montages that complemented the band’s iconic Southern rock style.
Throughout the show, it was clear that Lynyrd Skynyrd’s magic lies in their ability to blend storytelling with electrifying performances. Their 50th anniversary concert was not just a celebration of their past achievements but also a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
The band’s tributes to the late Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and other departed members was a touching part of the evening. During an emotional rendition of “Simple Man,” images of the original lineup were projected on the screens, evoking a sense of both reverence and celebration for their rich history.
Near the end of their set, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons returned to join Skynyrd’s guitarists on stage for “Call Me the Breeze” and lend some of his tasty licks to the song.
As the evening came to an end, the opening notes of “Free Bird” rang out, and the full house erupted into applause and cheers, aware they were witnessing a moment that has become almost ritualistic in Skynyrd’s live performances.
The extended guitar solos by Rickey Medlocke, Damon Johnson, and Mark Matejka — and the emotional intensity of the song’s climax — left the audience on a high, and when the final chords of “Free Bird” faded and the lights came up, they knew they had been part of something special. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 50th anniversary concert at Jiffy Lube Live was a rousing success, honoring the band’s incredible journey while delivering an unforgettable rock show that will be remembered by all the fans who were there.
Setlist
1. Workin’ for MCA
2. Skynyrd Nation
3. What’s Your Name
4. Down South Jukin’
5. That Smell
6. Saturday Night Special
7. The Ballad of Curtis Loew
8. Tuesdays’ Gone
9. Simple Man
10. Gimme Three Steps
11. Call Me the Breeze
12. Sweet Home Alabama
Encore
13. Free Bird
Lynyrd Skynyrd:
Johnny Van Zant – vocals
Rickey Medlocke – guitar/vocals
Damon Johnson – guitar
Mark Matejka – guitar
Peter Keys – Piano
Michael Cartellone – drums
Keith Christopher – bass
Dale Krantz-Rossington – backing vocals
Carol Chase – backing vocals
Here are some photos of Lynyrd Skynyrd performing at Jiffy Lube Live on Sept. 8, 2024. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Michael Sprouse.
