[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 89 (Tuesday, June 15, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1107]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNITION OF THE MUSICAL ACHIEVEMENTS OF LYNYRD SKYNYRD

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                          HON. SPENCER BACHUS

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 15, 2010

  Mr. BACHUS. Madam Speaker, in the music world, it is challenging 
enough for a band to record one hit song, much less become a voice for 
an entire region and a true icon. That is why Congressman Connie Mack 
and I are pleased to jointly recognize the accomplishments and 
patriotic spirit of the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd.
  From humble beginnings, Lynyrd Skynyrd has become one of the most 
revered and accomplished bands in the history of music, having sold 
nearly 30 million records worldwide in the last four decades. Through 
their live performances and the music and songs still played on radio 
stations around the world every day, the members of Lynyrd Skynyrd have 
established themselves as timeless artists who transcend any one 
musical era or generation.
  As validated by their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 
in 2006, Lynyrd Skynyrd has had a seminal impact on the development of 
rock and country music and a profound influence on the career 
development of many artists who followed in their creative footsteps.
  Through their collective voices, the band has become a beacon for 
regional identity and pride in the American South. This is perhaps best 
epitomized by the song ``Sweet Home Alabama,'' an anthem so universally 
identified with the State of Alabama that it is the official motto 
displayed on license plates.
  Since their start in Jacksonville, Florida, in the late 1960s, Lynyrd 
Skynyrd has been a spokesman for the everyday working man and woman, 
the friends and neighbors of their formative years. Their ability to 
capture a unique part of the American spirit has given their music 
emotional meaning to many fans and built a legacy that continues to 
grow year after year.
  Amid triumph and loss, these sons of the South have evolved from band 
to close-knit family. A tragic airplane crash in 1977 claimed original 
members Steve Gaines, Cassie Gaines, and lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, 
but Ronnie's brother Johnny carried on the tradition as the new 
vocalist. Devoted fans also remember and cherish the contributions of 
Allen Collins, Leon Wilkeson, Billy Powell, and Ean Evans. Today, led 
by core members Johnny Van Zant, Gary Rossington, Rickey Medlock, and 
Michael Cartellone, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to share an unbreakable 
bond with the fans they count as family as well.
  Lynyrd Skynyrd has been a generous supporter of our men and women in 
the Armed Forces for many years. The band has long understood that our 
military personnel bravely and unselfishly stand guard over our 
everyday security and freedom. They have enthusiastically raised money 
for military families and played countless shows for our service 
members in uniform. Their song ``Red, White, and Blue'' was written as 
a tribute to the men and women who serve in the defense of freedom.
  As representatives of timeless American values and champions of 
working class heroes, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to entertain and inspire 
millions of fans across the world. Along with Congressman Mack, I find 
it highly appropriate that the people's House takes time to recognize 
this classic band for lasting contributions not just to the world of 
music, but to American popular culture as a whole.

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