The iconic rock song “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd has captivated listeners since its release in 1973, leaving many wondering about the story behind the timeless classic. In the opening verses, the song evokes imagery of a “free bird” soaring through the skies, representing freedom and longing. Though cryptic in meaning, “Free Bird” has undoubtedly cemented its place in rock history as a staple arena anthem. This article will explore the origins and background of “Free Bird” – from its conception by the band to its enduring popularity decades later.
The History of Lynyrd Skynyrd
To understand where “Free Bird” came from, it’s important to know about the band behind it – Lynyrd Skynyrd. Formed in 1964 in Jacksonville, Florida, the Southern rock band was originally named My Backyard. The members included Ronnie Van Zant (lead vocals), Gary Rossington (guitar), Allen Collins (guitar), Larry Junstrom (bass), and Bob Burns (drums). After going through some early lineup changes, the band was discovered by musician Al Kooper at an Atlanta club in 1972. Kooper subsequently signed them to his record label and suggested they change their name to Lynyrd Skynyrd, inspired by their high school gym teacher Leonard Skinner.
The newly dubbed Lynyrd Skynyrd quickly gained a following through their energetic live shows and hard-driving blues-rock sound. Their music was defined by rock riffs, three-guitar attack, and Van Zant’s raspy vocals. After relocating to Atlanta, they continued honing their signature style and began writing original songs. Among these was an extended bluesy jam called “Free Bird,” penned by Collins and Van Zant. Though unsure about its commercial prospects, the band often performed it live to enthusiastic reception. “Free Bird” would end up becoming the closing number on their debut album (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd).
The Making of “Free Bird”
The origins of “Free Bird” can be traced back to the late 1960s when guitarist Allen Collins wrote the chiming opening guitar riff. In an interview, Collins shared:
“I came up with that lick when I was about 15 years old. I was just playing around when this riff came to me. I thought it sounded beautiful, even back then.”
Collins played the riff for friend and lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, who then wrote the melancholy lyrics about longing for freedom like a “free bird.” The song’s theme connected with Van Zant’s small-town upbringing and desire to break free.
In composing the music, Collins drew inspiration from the 1960s rock he admired – particularly The Rolling Stones’ melancholic “No Expectations.” The gentle arpeggiated guitar opening soon transitions into a heavy blues-rock jam powered by the three lead guitars of Collins, Gary Rossington, and Ed King. Below the guitar melodies, the rhythm section grooves along steadily with bass and drums.
The structure of “Free Bird” consists of a 4-minute ballad section bookended by two lengthy improvised jam sections of over 5 minutes each. Live versions could stretch over 15 minutes. In an interview, bassist Leon Wilkeson explained:
“We just didn’t know when to stop! We just kept jamming on and on. Luckily we had the foresight to realize that we needed to edit it down for the record.”
The band and producer Al Kooper wisely edited “Free Bird” down to a more radio-friendly length under 10 minutes for the studio version. But the full expansiveness of the song remained intact when played live.
Lyrical Meaning Behind “Free Bird”
The lyrics of “Free Bird” depict a man longing for freedom like a “free bird” and pleading with a woman for release from their relationship. He reflects that he “can’t change” and wishes “tomorrow would never come” so he could always have today.
Lines like “this bird you cannot change” and “Lord knows I can’t change” express the man’s innate wild spirit that cannot be tamed or altered. The refrain “If I leave here tomorrow, would you still remember me?” conveys his desire to break free mixed with his fear of losing her memory forever.
Scholars have noted that the lyrics touch on themes like the restlessness of youth and the desire for freedom from small town constraints. The song evokes blues and country influences in its imagery of birds flying free over open skies.
While ambiguous, the lyrics suggest the story of a passionate yet unstable relationship coming to an end. But the man feels bound to his lover, singing “For I’m as free as a bird now/And this bird you’ll never change.” He longs for freedom yet also depends on her love.
Reception and Popularity
“Free Bird” was released on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd) in 1973. While not initially released as a single, it quickly became a concert staple thanks to its epic guitar jam and crowd response.
The song’s popularity skyrocketed after a memorable live performance at the California Jam festival in 1974. Their version reached over 14 minutes with an extended guitar showcase by Collins, mesmerizing the crowd of over 200,000 people. It cemented the song’s status as a rock anthem.
Based on fan demand, a shortened single edit of “Free Bird” was eventually released in late 1974, reaching #19 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite its length, the song got airplay on rock radio stations due to its huge popularity.
Today, “Free Bird” remains Lynyrd Skynyrd’s highest charting single and most recognizable song. It is consistently ranked among the greatest rock songs of all time by publications like Rolling Stone and Guitar World. Key factors in its longevity are:
- Epic triple guitar attack in the jam sections
- Memorable bluesy ballad opening
- Emotional vocal performance by Ronnie Van Zant
- Relatable themes of freedom and restlessness
- Length allowing for improvisation in live settings
The song is guaranteed to prompt enthusiastic response and lighters waving when played at concerts. Despite its dated production, the passionate vocals and guitar tones resonate regardless of era. “Free Bird” has become a staple at graduations, weddings, funerals, and other major events over the past 40+ years.
Legacy and Pop Culture Appearances
As a bonafide rock anthem, “Free Bird” has left a lasting mark on pop culture:
- Ranked #3 on Guitar World’s 100 Greatest Guitar Solos
- The live version appears in the film The Devil’s Rejects (2005)
- Referenced in songs by various artists like The Hold Steady, Beastie Boys, and Tanya Tucker
- Appeared in TV shows like The Office, Scrubs, and Family Guy
- “Free Bird” scenes are a trope often spoofed in comedy films
- The Lynyrd Skynyrd version is playable in Guitar Hero games
- Infamously requested by concert crowds (“PLAY FREEBIRD!”) as a joke or encore
Beyond Lynyrd Skynyrd’s original, “Free Bird” has been covered by a diverse range of artists over the past decades. Notable versions include:
- Sara Evans’ bluegrass cover reached the country Top 40
- Frank Gambale’s jazz fusion instrumental version
- Jimmy Buffett’s laidback country-rock rendition
- Haim evoking Southern rock influences at live shows
- John Mayer and Keith Urban shredding the guitar solos
These covers attest to how the song transcends genres with its epic structure and emotive lyrics. Musicians continue to put their own spin on “Free Bird” while paying homage to the classic.
What “Free Bird” Means to Lynyrd Skynyrd
For Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Free Bird” is inextricably linked to the band’s history and has taken on deeper meaning:
- It was one of the first songs they wrote together in the early 70s
- Featured prominently at their concerts until the 1977 plane crash
- After reuniting in 1987, they retired it out of respect for lost bandmates
- Eventual return to setlists in tribute to its legacy and fan demand
- Vocalist Johnny Van Zant soberly honors his late brother Ronnie’s spirit when singing it
While difficult to perform emotionally, “Free Bird” represents reminiscing on their origins as Southern rockers. The soaring guitars and vocals transport listeners back to the sounds and dreams of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s early days.
Conclusion
Decades later, those spiraling triple-guitar licks still conjure up feelings of youthful abandon and longing for freedom. “Free Bird” has cemented its status alongside classics like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” thanks to its unlikely fusion of styles and universal emotional resonance. Though born out of jam sessions by young Southern rockers, it has achieved immortality through its epic structure and sensitive vocals delivering lyrics that will continue touching listeners’ hearts for generations to come. For Lynyrd Skynyrd, the song represents a peak they never quite reached again, forever linked with their original lineup and legacy.