Today marks the passing of Ronnie Van Zant, beloved lead singer of the Southern Rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Born in 1948 in Jacksonville, Florida, Van Zant began writing and performing music while still in high school, ultimately forming Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1964. The band rose to fame in the following decade, with hits like “Free Bird" and “Sweet Home Alabama” reaching the top of the charts and establishing Lynyrd Skynyrd as one of the most recognizable names in the Southern Rock movement. Revered for his songwriting and vocal abilities, Van Zant enjoyed a successful music career until his untimely passing on October 20, 1977, at the young age of 29. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans, as his influence on Southern Rock music will remain long after his death.