After More Than 50 Years Lynyrd Skynyrd Release Music Video For “Free Bird”
via Lynyrd Skynyrd / Youtube
It took over half a century, but Lynyrd Skynyrd’s most iconic song, “Free Bird,” finally has an official music video. Released on May 23 on the band’s YouTube channel, the video arrives 52 years after the track first appeared on their 1973 debut album, Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd. Directed by Max Moore, the nine-minute video captures the spirit of nostalgia and freedom that the song has always stood for. It follows an older man—played by actor Mike Seely, known for his role as Hugh Hefner in Pam & Tommy—as he reminisces about his younger years, past love, and his beloved motorcycle. Inspired by memories, he fixes up the bike and hits the open road, just in time for the legendary guitar solo.
Nostalgia, Romance, and the Open Road
The music video paints a touching picture of reflection and rediscovery. Flashbacks show the man’s younger self falling in love, with moments that include motorcycle rides and playful piggyback scenes. As the older version of the man brings the bike back to life, the film taps into the timeless energy of “Free Bird”—a symbol of youth, independence, and love that lingers. Director Max Moore, who has previously worked with rock acts like Spiritbox and Knocked Loose, brings the visual to life with cinematic flair and emotional storytelling.
Celebrating 50 Years with Tours and Tributes
The video release is part of a bigger celebration—Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 50th anniversary. The band is currently on their “50th Anniversary Tour 2025,” playing shows around the world, including stops in the UK this June with Blackberry Smoke as support. The U.S. leg of the tour kicks off again in August. Fans can also relive one of the band’s most emotional performances with Celebrating 50 Years – Live At The Ryman, a live album recorded in Nashville in November 2022. The show marked founding guitarist Gary Rossington’s final appearance with the band before his passing just five months later.
After all these years, “Free Bird” continues to soar—both as a song and now, finally, as a story on screen.
Watch the official music video below:
