Lynyrd Skynyrd lit up Suburban Park at the New York State Fair on Thursday, August 28th, with an electrifying performance proving once again the southern rock legends still have plenty of gas left in the tank. Taking the stage just after sunset, the band launched into a high-energy set that blended gritty guitar solos, and the kind of raw, unapologetic swagger that has defined their sound for over five decades.
The crowd, a mix of longtime fans and new listeners, erupted as the opening chords of “Workin’ for MCA” rang out. From the get-go, the band demonstrated their iconic blend of fiery guitars, infectious rhythms, and the unmistakable voice of lead singer Johnny Van Zant. Johnny’s voice was as gritty and soulful as ever. His connection with the crowd felt genuine, as he reminisced about the band’s roots and the importance of live music in a time when the world feels so disconnected. As the brother of the band’s late foreman Ronnie Van Zant, Johnny brought his own persona to the mic, delivering the lyrics with a raw intensity that matched his brother’s legendary spirit.
As the band lead into their hit “Tuesday’s Gone,” they dedicated the song to the late Gary Rossington, the last original member of the band who passed away in 2023. The stage presence of the band was larger than life, with the massive backdrop displaying clips from original concerts from the 70’s, and the roaring sound system amplifying every note. The lights, synchronized with the music, highlighted key moments during solos and kept the energy high throughout. As the opening guitar riffs of “Simple Man” filled the park, Van Zant held his mic stand high in the air, draped in the renowned American flag, dedicating the song to first responders and troops, thanking them for their hard work and sacrifice.
Just as the night seemed to be wrapping up, the all too familiar opening guitar riff of “Sweet Home Alabama” soared through the crowd, filling the air with pure intense energy and nostalgia. As the chorus hit, Van Zant held his mic out into the crowd as fans of all ages sang together in perfect unison. They sang along to every word and danced with their hands held high. As the song came to an end, the band waved goodbye, thanking the loyal fans for having them in Syracuse.
The lights went dark as the band exited the stage. Heavy rain fell from the sky as fans cheered and waved goodbye, thankful for the stunning performance they had just witnessed. Several minutes of dark skies and an empty stage went by. Many fans started heading back to their cars dressed in ponchos and holding their umbrellas, but true Skynyrd fans knew it wasn’t over.
Chants of “Free Bird” filled the fairgrounds as fans eagerly anticipated an encore. The chants went on for several minutes as loyal fans waited in heavy rain. Stage lights suddenly came back on and lit up the crowd as the band re-entered the stage. The notorious melodic guitar intro of “Free Bird” roared through the sky. Johnny delivered a heartfelt performance of the song, pouring his soul into every word, apparent that it would resonate with fans throughout. As the vocal part of the song came to an end, Johnny exited the stage, leaving his hat on the microphone stand symbolizing the passing of the torch from his late brother and original lead singer, Ronnie.
What happened next was perhaps the most memorable part of the show. As the song transitioned from slow and melodic vocals to fast and rhythmic instrumentals, fans’ eyes were glued to the stage. Legendary guitarist Rickey Medlocke took front of the stage and unleashed an absolutely electrifying, flawless, and seemingly never ending guitar solo.
Fans seemed to be completely entranced as the Jacksonville native delivered a jaw-dropping rendition of “Free Bird.” It wasn’t just the power of the song itself that made the night unforgettable, but the way Medlocke elevated it to something extraordinary, harnessing the energy of the crowd and responding to their cheers with explosive bursts of unparalleled guitar work. Close ups of Medlocke’s guitar lit up the big screens as his fingers danced over the strings with precision and passion. By the time the final notes of”Free Bird” came to an end, the crowd erupted into an ear shattering cheer and a standing ovation.
Despite some members being part of the band for only a fraction of Skynyrd’s career, the current lineup remains an unrelenting force. They have not only carried the torch but reignited it with every performance. The electrifying show in front of fairgoers demonstrated that Southern rock still has a place in the hearts of fans old and new, and proves once again, that their legacy lives on.
The band finishes out the month of August with a stop in Montville, Connecticut on Friday, followed by performances in Massachusetts and Maryland.
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