The Last Free Bird

Gary Rossington, the last surviving original member of the American rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, has passed away at 71 years old. He was a founding member of the band and contributed to all their albums, as well as co-writing the hit song “Sweet Home Alabama” in 1974. Rossington was also one of the survivors of a 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of several bandmates.

Although he had been experiencing heart problems in recent years, he continued to perform live shows as recently as February. The cause of his death was not disclosed, but the band confirmed his passing and expressed their sorrow on their Facebook page, stating that he is now reunited with his Skynyrd family in heaven.

Rossington had undergone heart surgery in 2021, according to a prior post from the band.

This is a developing story.