Lynyrd Skynyrd is one of the most iconic southern rock bands of all time. Formed in 1964 in Jacksonville, Florida, the band rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.” Though the band officially retired after a devastating 1977 plane crash killed lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and other members, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music lives on through countless tributes and tribute bands. But with so many Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands out there, how do you determine which one is the best? There are a few key factors that set the great Skynyrd tributes apart from the rest.
Authenticity
First and foremost, a top-notch Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute should sound as close to the real thing as possible. From vocals to instrumentation, the music itself should capture the Southern rock style and spirit that made the original band so iconic. The best Skynyrd tribute bands will include guitars, piano, bass, drums, and multiple vocalists to recreate that full, rousing Lynyrd Skynyrd sound. Attention should be paid to details like Van Zant’s unique vocal style and the band’s signature guitar solos. Stage presence and energy are also important for an authentic recreation of a live Skynyrd show.
Musicianship
In addition to sounding like Lynyrd Skynyrd, a great tribute band needs top-notch musicianship. The musicians should be talented enough to play the often demanding guitar parts and solos flawlessly. The vocalists need strong, raspy rock voices similar to Ronnie Van Zant’s. A Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute with lesser musical chops won’t be able to capture the mastery and complexity of the original recordings. The best tribute bands will have musicians who can keep up with Skynyrd’s powerful, fast-paced southern boogie style.
Song Selection
A strong Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute act has to play the songs people expect to hear. At a minimum, they should have crowd-pleasers like “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Free Bird,” “Gimme Three Steps,” “What’s Your Name,” “Simple Man,” and “Tuesday’s Gone” in regular rotation. Beyond the big hits, top Lynyrd Skynyrd tributes will also mix in deeper album cuts and lesser-known songs that true fans appreciate. However, they also understand which songs are going to get the crowd pumped up, singing along, and having an good time. Finding the right balance is key.
Showmanship
In addition to nailing the music, a great Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute should aim to emulate the band’s famously energetic stage presence. Like the original southern rockers, they should be able to whip crowds into a frenzy with charismatic performances. Little touches like outfit choices, guitar swings, and interactions that mimic vintage Skynyrd concerts add to the effect. An overall fun, southern party atmosphere keeps the good times rolling.
Reviews and Reputation
When evaluating the multitude of Lynyrd Skynyrd tributes out there, it helps to see what others have to say. Online reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and reputation among fans and critics all provide useful insight. The best received Skynyrd tributes will have consistently glowing reviews praising their authentic sound, stellar musicianship, and rollicking live shows. Longevity also matters – a band that has been successfully paying tribute for decades is a good sign. Big gigs like festivals and opening for major bands also serve as testaments to quality.
Some Top Contenders
Based on the key criteria like sound, performance, song selection, and reputation, a few Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands stand out among the many. Here are some top contenders for the best in the business:
Street Survivors
– Formed in 2011 in Riverside, CA
– 5 member band with 2 guitarists, bassist, drummer, and lead vocalist
– Known for nailing the authentic Skynyrd sound and stage presence
– Received praise from Gary Rossington of Lynyrd Skynyrd
– Toured with Foghat, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and other major bands
– Frequent headliners at biker rallies and southern rock festivals
Gimme Back My Bullets
– Playing since 1999 out of Darien Center, NY
– 6 members covering all instrumentation and 3-part vocals
– Extensive setlist covering hits, deep cuts, and variety of Skynyrd eras
– High-energy stage show with outfit changes and audience interaction
– Opened for Blackberry Smoke, Molly Hatchet, Outlaws, and .38 Special
– Regulars on the northeast US festival and biker rally circuit
Red White & Skynyrd
– Arizona-based band active since 2007
– Accurately capture intricate triple-guitar attack of original band
– 100+ show per year schedule across the western US and beyond
– Lead singer won Ronnie Van Zant soundalike contest at 2006 Skynyrd Fest
– Known for setlist variety and ability to adjust based on audience
-GetNods from reviewers for balance of passion and authenticity
Second Helping
– Toronto-based Canadian band playing since the 1980s
– Extensive touring across North America and Europe
– Played huge crowds at Rockin’ the Rally in Sturgis and other biker events
– Lead singer has amazing raspy vocals akin to Ronnie Van Zant’s
– Very active on social media with big following of die-hard Skynyrd fans
– Get rave reviews for high-octane shows and down-to-earth fun personalities
Freebird
– One of the longest running tributes starting in 1992
– Based in California but tour heavily across the western states
– Hallmarks are spot-on recreations of guitar tones and solos
– Known for deep setlists spanning all eras of original band history
– Lead singer Johnny Van Zant is brother of Ronnie and Donnie Van Zant
– High praise from fans for respectfully honoring Skynyrd’s legacy
The Verdict
When all is considered – sound, performance, song selection, reviews, and longevity – one Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band rises above the pack as the cream of the crop. That band is Street Survivors. For over a decade, they have wowed audiences around the country with their dead-on musical accuracy and high energy shows. Street Survivors mirror both the music and live power of a 1970s Lynyrd Skynyrd concert with incredible detail. They have the ardently loyal fanbase and consistently rave reviews to back it up. While plenty of Skynyrd tribute bands do a decent job, Street Survivors have earned a reputation as the definitive Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute act to catch if you want the true authentic concert experience.
Conclusion
Lynyrd Skynyrd remains one of the most beloved and influential southern rock groups of all time. Their enduring popularity and extensive catalog of iconic hits ensure that top-flight tribute bands have plenty of great material to work with. The best Skynyrd tributes set themselves apart by expertly capturing the full experience of seeing the original band live in their 1970s heyday. Attention to everything from vocals, solos, song selection, and stage presence is key. When done right, as is the case with Street Survivors, a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute act can transport audiences back in time for an unforgettable concert. For both die-hard Skynyrd fans and newer listeners, an amazing tribute is the next best thing to seeing the real band back in their prime.