Back in October 1973, a new Southern rock band had just made their way on to the scene. Although they had been playing for some time prior, 1973 was the year that Lynyrd Skynyrd released their debut album
Titled (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd), the album hit the shelves on August 13, 1973. It featured some of the best Skynyrd songs that the band has ever produced, including “Free Bird” and “I Ain’t the One.”
Skynyrd took those tunes and a handful of others along with them when they showed up at the Ardent Studios in Memphis, Tennessee on October 30, 1973. Audio from that radio show is still around, and it’s a real treat to the ears.
In addition to “Free Bird” and “I Ain’t the One,” Skynyrd performed some songs that would be released on later albums. Those songs were “Workin’ for MCA,” “Call Me the Breeze,” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” They also performed “Woman of Mine,” which wasn’t distributed to the public until the 2000 compilation set Collectybles was released.
Even though we don’t have any video from the Ardent Studios session, the audio is entertaining all on its own. Knowing what Skynyrd went on to become, it’s intriguing to listen to the humble roots of songs that went on to become their classic hits.
Plus, there’s just something that can’t be beat when it comes to raw, live audio. It captures the realness of a performance better than anything else, allowing the listener to develop a stronger connection to the song.
Ready to take a trip back in time? Head on down below where you can catch the full audio clip of Skynyrd’s session at the Ardent Studios in Memphis.
The clip is over 30 minutes long, but it’s worth it. Trust us, once you get done listening you’ll be wishing for more!
Lynyrd Skynyrd is hitting the road this summer and coming to a city near you – don’t miss your chance to see them LIVE! Tickets always sell out fast for such a legendary band, get yours now by clicking here!