About the song
“Freebird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd is more than just a song—it’s an anthem that has resonated with rock fans since its release. First appearing on their 1973 debut album, (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd), “Freebird” was written by lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Allen Collins. The track is a powerful blend of soulful lyrics and an epic guitar solo that has made it a classic in rock history.
By the time Lynyrd Skynyrd performed “Freebird” at Oakland Coliseum Stadium on July 2, 1977, the song had already become a staple of their live shows, known for its extended guitar section that often ran for more than 10 minutes. This particular performance took place just months before the tragic plane crash in October 1977 that claimed the lives of several band members, including Ronnie Van Zant, making this one of their last concerts with the original lineup.
The live version of “Freebird” captured at Oakland Coliseum is legendary. It showcases the band at their peak, with the energy of the crowd and the raw emotion of the performance adding to the song’s legacy. The haunting lyrics, “If I leave here tomorrow, would you still remember me?” carry an even deeper poignancy when you consider the fate of the band members just a few months later.
“Freebird” reached #19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart when it was released as a single in 1974, and it has since become one of the most requested live songs in rock history. This performance at Oakland is often celebrated as a defining moment for Lynyrd Skynyrd, immortalizing the band’s impact on Southern rock and the enduring power of “Freebird.”