Lynyrd Skynyrd Guitarist Rickey Medlocke Gives Finger To Rock Hall Of Fame

Rickey Medlocke, the guitarist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, recently expressed his frustration towards the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for excluding him from the band’s 2006 induction. Despite his significant contributions to the band’s music, the Hall of Fame did not consider him a classic-era member and thus did not include him in the induction ceremony.

Medlocke’s association with Skynyrd dates back to 1971 when he played drums and sang for the band before briefly returning to his former group, Blackfoot. He rejoined Skynyrd as a guitarist in 1996 and has been an integral part of the band ever since. Notably, his drumming and vocals can be heard on several recordings, including the 1977 album Street Survivors and the 1978 compilation album Skynyrd’s First and … Last.

In a recent interview with Iridium Rock and Metal Reviews, Medlocke expressed his disappointment with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s decision. He stated that despite his contributions, the Hall claimed he had no significant link to the band’s career, which led to his exclusion from the induction. In response, Medlocke made a symbolic gesture, extending his middle finger towards the Hall of Fame, expressing his frustration and disapproval.

Despite this setback, Medlocke finds validation elsewhere. He emphasized that his true recognition comes from the fans, the music he plays, and his association with Lynyrd Skynyrd. Additionally, Medlocke reflected on a different honor that holds more significance for him: his induction into the Native American Music Hall of Fame in 2008. He expressed gratitude for this recognition, stating that it meant more to him than any induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame could ever offer.