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For all you classic rock lovers, prepared to feel a bit nostaglic. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album, Pronounced ‘Leh-‘nerd ‘Skin-‘nerd, was released on August 13th, 1973. Yep, 50 years ago. So in celebration of the 50th anniversary of this release, I give you 9 of the best Lynyrd Skynyrd Memorabilia items the internet has to offer. I also gave you a bonus item, just because it’s awesome. Scroll down to shop immediately or read on about the history of this iconic band.
Lynyrd Skynyrd History
Lynyrd Skynyrd had been around for several years but was never able to land a proper album deal. That changed when Al Kooper (founder of Blood Sweat and Tears) saw the band performing in Atlanta, and signed the band to his label, Sounds of The South. He also swapped out the piano on “Free Bird” for an organ and let the guitarists go for four minutes at the song’s end.
With the unique spelling of the band’s name, entitling their first album Pronounced ‘Leh-‘nerd ‘Skin-‘nerd, was an exceptionally smart move. The band famously named themselves after their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner, who gave Ronnie and Gary a hard time over their long hair.
The only single that was released from the album initially was “Gimme Three Steps.” It wasn’t until after the success of Second Helping’s “Sweet Home Alabama” that “Free Bird” was released as a single in the form of a shortened version without the four-minute instrumental at the end. Even with the truncated edit, “Free Bird” made it to #19 on the U.S. charts (soundfacts.com).
Ronnie Van Zant was one of the finest storytellers that the world of rock and roll has ever seen. “Gimme Three Steps” was written about Ronnie’s run-in with the boyfriend of a girl Ronnie was caught dancing with. “Simple Man” is a compilation of the advice that Ronnie and Gary Rossington got from the strong woman in their lives, their mothers and grandmothers. I could go on for days about the stories behind Lynyrd Skynrd’s songs, but for now, let’s celebrate the 50th anniversary of this amazing debut album with memorabilia from the band and album. I hope you find something you like!
Lynyrd Skynyrd Men's Biker Patch T-Shirt
I like the vintage feel of this shirt. There’s nothing screaming at you. Sizes S – 2XL 100% cotton.
Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd On Vinyl
The debut album on vinyl. This is what it’s all about. Any vinyl rock collection should have Pronounced ‘Leh-‘nerd ‘Skin-‘nerd in it.
Women's Word Art V-Neck T-Shirt - Free Bird
I love this ladies Lynyrd Skynryd shirt. It’s a V-neck and it’s 60% cotton / 40% polyester which usually makes for a softer shirt that doesn’t tend to shrink. Sizes S – XXL.
“Free Bird"- Lynyrd Skynyrd Retro Song Lyrics Wall Art Sign
The most iconic of Lynyrd Skynryd’s songs, this “Free Bird” poster honors the lyrics and the band. A great piece for the rock fans. I love it. 11×14.
Muscle Shoals Alabama Vintage Guitar Wings T-Shirt
“Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers.” A classic line from “Sweet Home Alabama” giving respect to the famous recording studio. Four color options and tons of sizes including tall.
Lonmuju Aluminum Metal Sign tin Signs
One of my favorite Lynyrd Skynryd songs is “Simple Man.” Enjoy the advice from their mothers and grandmothers in the lyrics of the song on this 8×12 aluminum sign.
Whiskey Bottles and Brand-New Cars: The Fast Life and Sudden Death of Lynyrd Skynyrd
I have not read this book… yet, but I’m definitely interested. From the description: “Based on interviews with surviving band members, Whiskey Bottles and Brand-New Cars shares how lead singer and front man Ronnie Van Zant guided the band’s hugely successful five-year run and, in the process, created not only a new country rock idiom, but a new Confederacy in constant conflict with old Southern totems and prejudices.”
Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd - Live From Jacksonville - Exclusive Limited Edition Red Colored Vinyl LP
I LOVE the red vinyl. Lynyrd Skynyrd has always been known for the high caliber of their live shows. Celebrate their 50th-anniversary release with this live recording from Jacksonville.
Lynyrd Skynyrd Keyring
Gimme three steps and this keychain, mister. The classic Lynyrd Skynryd logo makes for a cool metal keychain.
BONUS ITEM: Gimme Back My Bullets - Exclusive Limited Edition Bicolor Vinyl LP
This is a celebration of Lynyrd Skynryd’s debut album, but I ran across this and wanted to share. I love the bi-color vinyl limited edition version. By the way, “Gimme Back My Bullets” is a reference to wanting more record chart hits. The “bullets” are a reference to songs that are moving up the chart fast.
