How was the “Free Bird” hit? History of a song about freedom
Before “Free bird“He became the Hymn of Freedom, it was only the idea of guitarist Allen Collins and vocalist Ronnie Van Zant. Lynyrd Skynyrd He was just building his brand. The band went through several names before in 1972 he accepted the one we know to this day – referring to the physical education teacher Leonard Skinner. Although he was harsh for students, for the world of music his name went down in history.
In 1973, the group recorded a debut album, and “Free Bird” became his strongest point. Even then, the song had the potential to become more than just another number in the concert set.
Free Bird as a symbol of freedom according to Lynyrd Skynyrd
The lyrics of the song raises the subject of freedom and independence – values particularly important in America of the 70s “What is this song about?” the journalist once asked. Van Zant replied briefly: “About what it means to be free. That the bird can fly wherever he wants.” He also added: “Everyone wants to be free. This is the essence of this country.”
This is one of those sentences that are remembered – not only to fans of music, but also to those who see more than just entertainment in it.
A song that was not believed in the label
“Free Bird” lasted over 9 minutes. It was too much for the music industry that time. The directors of the label asked to shorten the song to three minutes. Lynyrd Skynyrd refused. And he did well.
The band believed in the strength of the composition, and fans quickly appreciated not only the text, but also long, thrilling guitar solo. When the single hit the Billboard Hot 100 list, he took 19th place – and that was not the most important thing. It was important that the song lived his own life, and his concert versions could last up to 14 minutes.
The band’s longest hit and its stage power
Over the years, “Free Bird” has not only become a number closing every concert, but also an inseparable symbol of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Fans expected him with the same tension as others expect the biggest hits of Beatles or Stones.
“Guitar World” magazine twice – in 2010 and 2016 – placed a solo from “Free Bird” in the 3rd place in the ranking of the best guitar moments in history. It speaks for itself.
Today, it is difficult to talk about the history of rock without mentioning Lynyrd Skynyrd and their biggest hit. “Free Bird” is not only a song – it is a manifesto of freedom, proof of the creators’ stubbornness and an example that it is worth going through your own path. Although more than half a century has passed since its premiere, it still arouses emotions, inspires and plays in the hearts of those who need to remind you that freedom is within reach.