Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lyrics

[Intro]

[Verse 1]
If I leave here tomorrow
Would you still remember me?
For I must be traveling on, now
'Cause there's too many places I've got to see

[Pre-Chorus]
But if I stay here with you, girl
Things just couldn't be the same

[Chorus]
'Cause I'm as free as a bird now
And this bird you cannot change
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
And the bird you cannot change
And this bird you cannot change
Lord knows I can't change
[Bridge]

[Verse 2]
Bye-bye, baby, it's been a sweet love, yeah-yeah
Though this feeling I can't change
But, please, don't take it so badly
'Cause Lord knows I'm to blame
[Pre-Chorus]
But, if I stay here with you, girl
Things just couldn't be the same

[Chorus]
'Cause I'm as free as a bird now
And this bird you'll never change
Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
And the bird you cannot change
And this bird you cannot change
Lord knows I can't change
Lord, help me, I can't change

[Outro]
Lord, I can't change
Won't you fly high, free bird, yeah
[Guitar Solo]

Lynyrd Skynyrd, the American southern rock band, released the song “Free Bird” in 1973 on their debut album, (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd). The song gained popularity after its release as a single the following year, and eventually made its way into the top 40 charts after the success of “Sweet Home Alabama.” The powerful ballad and its lyrics were inspired by the guitarist Allen Collins’s girlfriend, Kathy, and was dedicated to Duane Allman, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s late friend and fellow guitarist who died in a motorcycle accident.

About the Song

The song "Free Bird" is a masterpiece composed by Allen Collins and Ronnie Van Zant, the band’s lead vocalist. It starts with a slow and soulful solo sound of the guitar. Then, we get the first vocals, which takes the listener on an emotional journey. The slow and soulful solo sound returns to push the emotion forward. We then hear the second verse with the same spirit as before, which leads the soulful solo sound again. The climax of the song begins with the guitar solos which last for 5 minutes, taking the listener on a journey of pure rock heaven. The last verse of the song followed by the final guitar solo delivers an emotional impact that's hard to find in most music today. The song has a rare combination of powerful lyrics accompanied by soulful, heart-wrenching guitar melodies that have made it a staple of classic rock music over the years.

The notion “Free Bird” has also become a widespread habit after its crowd chant introduction on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s live album, One More from the Road, and it cheers up the crowd during live music performances almost exclusively.

Lyric-wise, "Free Bird" has an unparalleled depth and meaning because of its emotional intensity, utilizing vivid metaphors that paint a picture of a man pleading with his love to stay but ultimately finding reconciliation with letting her go. The song also touches on various cultural values and world issues, making it a filled-with-life song of high relevance even today.

The elements of rock and blues supported by powerful vocals make the song one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s best-known and most respected pieces. The instrumental solos not only enhance the appeal but also showcase the instrumental dexterity of the band members. The emotional weight of the song is reinforced by the well-crafted lyrics and how they sync with the melody. The universally recognizable guitar intro is enough to stir emotions in the listener, even before the lyrics are uttered.

Conclusion

"Free Bird" is a classic Southern rock song that is emblematic of Lynyrd Skynyrd's style and will always be an inspiration to rock music enthusiasts. The song's longevity and continued relevance today confirms its place in rock and roll history. It is a great representation of the band's skill, creativity, and passion for music.

So, the next time you hear someone shouting “Free Bird!” at a concert, you’ll understand how that one song had the power to inspire such emotions and remain relevant after all these years.

• Release Date: August 13, 1973
• Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd