Gone with the Wind: The Remarkable Rise and Tragic Fall of Lynyrd Skynyrd

Tom O'Dell's documentary about Lynyrd Skynyrd begins with a look at front man Ronnie Van Zant, who grew up in rural Florida and considered a career in sports until he caught a concert by the Rolling Stones, which inspired him to form a band with high school friends (other influences included the blues-based bands Free and Hour Glass, the latter a precursor to the Allman Brothers). Drummer Bob Burns remembers practicing 12 hours a day before the band made a name for themselves, first as the One Percent, then as Lynyrd Skynyrd. After securing a manager and a recording date at Muscle Shoals, the group should have been on their way, but nine record labels would turn them down. Their fortunes changed, however, when they met Al Kooper, who produced their eponymous 1973 debut, which included the now classic rock anthem “Free Bird.” Although Kooper was impressed with their talent, he found it odd that the band never improvised. As critic Robert Christgau puts it, “The Allman Brothers are a jam band and Lynyrd Skynyrd are a song band. Ronnie was a great songwriter.” By the time of their 1974 follow-up, Second Helping, the group had started to use a Confederate flag as a backdrop, causing controversy that continues to this day. With a new manager onboard, the band toured and drank more than ever, leading to departures for Burns and guitarist Ed King, but they rallied with new additions Artimus Pyle, Steve Gaines, and three backup singers. Sadly, a 1977 plane crash that took the lives of Van Zant and Gaines would bring that lineup to an end. Offering a worthy tribute to the band's first and best incarnation, this is recommended. (K. Fennessy)