On Saturday, April 27, the last remaining member of the classic Lynyrd Skynyrd lineup, drummer Artimus Pyle returned to Franklin, OH after his 2022 appearance, playing homage to Ronnie Van Zant and the legacy of the band that brought his name to prominence. The Artimus Pyle band brought back a collection of vintage, nostalgia and modern material dedicated to the memories of those lost in the infamous crash and members that have passed on since. The night also celebrated the movie Street Survivors: The True Story of the Lynyrd Skynyrd Crash (2020), written by Pyle, telling his side of history. The music of Skynyrd and Van Zant was honored note for note and a pleasure to see and hear in person. For those who attended the previous appear, it was a literal second helping. In an ironic twist, at a show where it was completely appropriate to yell “Free Bird,” no one did till they played it.
Pyle’s still playing the songs, 45 years after the crash, with his band of skilled musicians encompassing the same energy and passion as the classic lineup, whether a time warp trip back to the Green Cold Springs Hell House or in front of the Rolling Stones crowd, rebelliously strolling down the tongued stage.
Since his departure in 1991, he’s dedicated his time and career to his own musical ventures while consistently respecting his history and those no longer here to make it. With several albums of material to work with of his own they played a healthy selection of classics, fan favorites, some deep cuts and a tune from the recent movie. Pyle still performs with youthful gusto, stamina and chops, celebrating his 7th decade, playing better and faster than kids half his age, and still touring the music that made him a household name and put him in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (2006). He insists he’ll play drums till he’s a centenarian then switch to stand up comedy.
In February Pyle released Anthems: Honoring The Music of Lynyrd Skynyrd, a collection of classic song Skynyrd featuring Billy Ray Cyrus among other luminaires with the legendary Dolly Parton giving “Free Bird” new flight.
The men in black duo known as The Jake Roberts band started things off with a mix of country, blues and whatever came to mind. They’re a modern day mix of high proof drinking, honky-tonk haunts and multi-generations of country music sewn into four hands and two guitars.
No DDT’s were hit, well, maybe to the ears but no snakes slithered. They delivered a stream of conscious set with classics of country drawing from the trail blazers to modern day 6-string slingers, blasting blues and stories of legends of yesteryear telling tales through a black brimmed hat. Roberts didn’t work with a setlist, rather, choosing whatever they felt like playing. The crowd didn’t seem to mind, dancing and rocking out to the young outlaws on stage. For their time in stage, they turned J.D.’s into their personal roadhouse and they were oh, so nice.
Brad Durden, Jerry Lyda, Dave Fowler, Scott Raines and Mr. Pyle returned to the J.D. Legends stage ready to give the 2024 crowd a multi-decade time warp back to simpler, history making, technology-free times.
The show began armed and ready with a three punch shot of favorites with “Saturday Night Special.” “Call Me The Breeze” was literary the Second Helping of the evening. Ewwww… “That Smell” rounded off the early experience while deeper track “Searching” gave back more lyrical bullets.
“Gimme Three Steps” signaled the most famous near bar room brawl, shootout in music history. Pyle asked for cell phone lights and those things people used to hold up called, lighters. A few flames lit up as the emotional opening chords of “Simple Man” began.
The smooth bluesy riffs of “On The Hunt” went down like smooth country whisky, while “Street Survivor,” as Pyle said, was inspired by Street Survivors.
“All I Can Do Is Write about It” calmed things down with acoustic strings and peaceful insights from a southern rock rebel. The Franklin wind outside, called and cried for Tuesday’s return while the flirtations of an on the road romance asked “What’s Your Name?”
The best was saved for last as the second to last tune was an unofficial state anthem, where the skies are so blue.
Near the end, Pyle came out from behind the kit to address the crowd. He humorously scolded some billiard enthusiasts, enjoying the new game room, saying for those that’ve been playing pool we’re The Artimus Pyle Band. We play songs like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.”
He thanked everyone for supporting them and the music of Skynyrd as his band continues to keep its memory and legacy alive. He said he had Buckeye ties, graduating high school in Columbus before joining the Marines, bringing a few in the crowd to their feet. He said the gentlemen around him were successful business men and didn’t have to do this, but they love the music.
“Free Bird” began with all screens turning to classic, vintage band footage celebrating fallen members and those that have passed on since, including the famous Rolling Stones tongue stage show. All emotions of what Skynyrd and their signature world-known anthem meant to the crowd and the band members was captured in the note for note performance.
Pyle has always been very emotional and genuine in his feelings about the band and Van Zant, crediting him for his fame and notoriety. As long as Pyle is breathing, he’ll hit the skins and carry the Skynyrd flag forward.
Images/Words- Mike Ritchie
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