RIP Billy Powell
by lyndsie ~ January 28th, 2009. Filed under: Superstar Spotlight.
Lynyrd Skynrd has seen a lot of tragedy since the band was formed in Jacksonville, Florida, back in 1966. Notably, Ronnie Van Zandt, Steve Gaines, and Cassie Gaines — the singer, guitarist, and backup vocalist, respectively — were among those killed in a plane crash in 1977.
Now, Billy Powell, the keyboardist for Lynyrd Skynrd, can be added to that list of tragedies.
It might not be easy to understand, mourning the loss of a musician that many of us who are under the age of 35 to 40 have never heard of — unless, of course, we are into classic rock — but honestly, if you love music, you should mourn this passing. Whether you are a fan of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music (or unique spelling style) or not, we should all recognize the contribution this band has made to music as a whole.
It has a particularly personal ring for yours truly. My parents danced to “Free Bird” at their wedding reception. It was a very long dance. However, it gives me the opportunity to see my folks fall in love with each other all over again each time they hear it.
Billy Powell was only 56, but had a long history of heart problems. It is suspected that a heart attack led to his death. There will be no autopsy.
