Post by jacksonvillekid on Oct 6, 2007 14:38:38 GMT -5
It is said that Celebrity marriages never last. Well, Gary and Dale Rossington are the exception to that rule. Two stars who crossed paths after such tragedy, created some of the best music of the 80's, suffered more tragedy, and managed to fall in love through it all. I have to say that I have admired these two both individually and as partners greatly.
First, Gary because he was and is everything I strived to be in a Guitarist. His playing may not be as flashy as the other amazing guitarists he has kept company with. However, it was his style and feel that made him my idol as a kid and still as an adult. Gary has suffered the loss of his best friends and kept going on. His live performances show he is a star. He does not need to jump around, show off with some really fancy licks. He plays what needs to be played. His guitar, his style, his love and sincerity is why no matter who is beside him, it feels like a Skynyrd Concert. Add a Van Zant at vocals, Billy on keys, and it is still Lynyrd Skynyrd. Not to take away from the other great people who have contributed so much to the band. All I am saying is Gary's slide in Freebird, his riffs in simple man, are all part of the "signature sound" of Lynyrd Skynyrd. I am deeply saddened that Allen can not play beside him as Allen and Gary as a team gave Skynyrd it's sound in the 70's. Now 30+ years later Gary still gives Skynyrd their "signature sound."
Dale came to my attention one new years eve lying in my bed listening to the radio to Charlie Daniels announce the Rossington Collins Band. I had been lost musically since Skynyrd's plane had went down in Oct. 77 and did not ever hope to hear Gary and Allen play again. But that night, I was reborn sorta speak. But I was really hooked when Dale sang those first words... The powerful yet angelic voice which came over that Radio just floored me. I ran right out and bought their first album, "Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere". I played that LP till it drove my folks nuts, and till it was wore completely out. Personally, I believe that was the single greatest album to come out of the 80's.. Many would argue the point. But, I will ague the point till the day I die. That album took "Southern Rock" to a whole new level. I truly admire her vocal ability. Now, I admire her dedication to Gary, Family, and Skynyrd. Think about what she has sacrificed to be where she is... She has given up being center stage, to sing back up with Gary. It really shows great love and character. Every man should be so lucky as to have a lady like Dale in their life.