- Born
- 15 January 1948, Jacksonville, Florida, United States
- First work
- 1973: (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd)
- Peak
- 1973 to 1977 (estimated)
- Last work
- 1977: Street Survivors
- Died
- 20 October 1977, Gillsburg, United States; aged 29; accident
Ronnie Van Zant
Music: singer, songwriter, United States
Ronnie Van Zant was an American singer and primary lyricist who led the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd from its formation in Jacksonville through its 1970s heyday. Known for his plainspoken delivery, bare feet, and down-to-earth storytelling, he helped steer the group to international renown with anthems such as Free Bird and Sweet Home Alabama. His songs explored working-class Southern life with grit and poignancy. His life and career were cut short in October 1977 when the band's chartered plane crashed near Gillsburg, Mississippi, just days following the release of the acclaimed album Street Survivors.
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Signature works
- Free Bird song1973
- Simple Man song1973
- (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd) album1973
- Sweet Home Alabama song1974
- Second Helping album1974
- Street Survivors album1977
Honours
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, 2006
Groups: Lynyrd Skynyrd.