Time Codes 0:00 - Start 0:24 - The miracle of Lynyrd Skynyrd 3:21 - The blood oath agreement 9:20 - The tribute show of 1987 15:12 - The Lawsuit 18:02 - The book agreement 21:25 - The magic book 25:15 - After the tribute show 28:33 - The Lynyrd Skynyrd memorial 29:42 - QUESTIONS FROM TH-cam
i know im asking randomly but does anybody know of a trick to log back into an instagram account..? I was dumb lost the password. I love any tips you can give me!
@Jeremiah Easton Thanks for your reply. I got to the site on google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff atm. Seems to take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
After watching many ,oh so many of Gene's interviews and documentaries on Skynard,I believe this about gene odom.What you see is what you get.Straighty one eighty.
This video deserves 1 MILLION views at least, due solely to what really took place during that lawsuit. Gene Odom is the model for what a true, lifelong, and loyal friend should be. He could've easily been bought off, but he chose the moral high ground by defending his dead friend and his children. Much respect & admiration to you Gene.
Although it cost Gene money, he gained integrity. Al Collins stood in his truth to his deceased friend and business partner by notarizing the agreement.
@@ladypaul7932 Thank you for the kind words. For years we hated him for killing her. I do think Collins was sorry for it but it didn't bring her . Take care my friend.
Out whole bunch & crazy stories He said She said. I believe Gene. Wish Allen still alive & settled this mess long time ago. Heard some crazy stories on Gary. Heard that was Gary's last tour during plane crash tour. Truth be interesting to know.
You're a good man Gene and a good friend to Ronnie and Judy. I've watched many docs and interviews about what happened after the crash. I knew that there were some lawsuits etc but I had no idea about all of the backstabbing and how ugly it all was. What a shame.
Out of all the interviews I've seen of gene over the years! He went in pretty good detail about some things I haven't heard before! This was really fascinating!
Gene is only guy (Gary most of the time) that has never changed his story about how things went down. Artimus' stories change by the hour and Billy's changed by the day
Artimus isi alotta fun to listen to, though! Maybe he smoked too much!🤣 i did read wherethose 2 girls on the beach admitted they were lying about Artimus. A little too late, if you ask me! They should be chargwd with perjury!
You're right! True and long time fans of Lynyrd Skynyrd who have heard all the interviews know all the times that his story has changed. Always to put the light on himself. He had his favorites and he has some enemies of the band, and his story always revolves around that. @@tomswink819
2:06. I agree, Allen Collins was the heart and soul of the guitar part of LS. His driving rhythms and gritty leads. Gary and Ed and then later Stevie were all great, but Allen was like what Malcom was to AC/DC
Gene, That was a great interview. Truly appreciate the up front honesty. It seems when people pass away and money's involved things are never easy. Together they all left some awesome music behind for the rest of us.
God Bless ya Gene, your a true friend of all Lynyrd Sknyrd fans !!! I wish your ol' fishing buddies estate would of done right and taken care of you !!!
I love listening to Gene tell stories and I like the interviewer too.. She has patience asks good questions and seems genuinely interested to hear Gene talk.. She's cute too and that helps as well... They make a good duo!! Don't stop we need more!!
Now I'm glad I always refuse to call the new Lynyrd Skynyrd Lynyrd Skynyrd and I always called them a glorified tribute band. There is no Lynyrd Skynyrd without Ronnie Van zant no disrespect to his little brother. I think his little brother does a fine job at singing those songs. But there's a lot more to Lynyrd Skynyrd than just someone who's capable of singing the song. There's a whole another aspect there's a spirit there's just a attitude that can't be replaced. I think it's awesome that Gene Odom still here able to defend and speak up for Ronnie.
@@turkwelsch So basically your saying u can get saved, then drink, do drugs, screw dif girl every show (don't ask me) never go to church and go to heaven?
@@wildestcowboy2668 So let me flip the script on you my friend, what you are saying is if you stop drinking and you go to church and you clean up your life morally then you will go to heaven? Well then you’re a man who’s trying to be saved by his works and not the blood of Jesus Christ alone. This therefore would make you an unsaved man who will go to hell when he dies.
@@turkwelsch No sir I was asking since gene and artimus said Ronnie drank and snorted drugs and cheated on his wife and basically lived the life opposite of a Christian all he had to do was run over to a preacher and get saved and back to the bottle again etc. What's your thoughts on that? Not asking you to judge but he was pretty good at the wild life.
@@wildestcowboy2668 The Bible teaches that we have all sinned, when a person is saved and becomes a Christian and they believe that Jesus Christ died for their sins and was buried and rose again on the third day. Those are the conditions that God set. That person can now go on to live a Christian life in which all people struggle to do what is right. Some do better than others, Unfortunately since we are human we all sin willfully to some degree or another after we are saved. Yet we are still saved because we had no part in our own salvation to begin with, Christ did it all! Titus 3:5, Romans 3:28. So to answer your question about if Ronnie would be in heaven or not the answer is yes. If he was truly saved he was sealed by the Holy Spirit promise to the day of redemption just like any other Christian will be.
Allen was such an exciting guitar player. I think he was one of the best rock guitarists. Gary , Ed, and Steve were excellent players but Allen played the best leads.
Im so glad to still have Gene around doing all these tours and interviews. I love hearing all the history and shennanigans the guys got up to and little stories to get insight into how these guys were and how it all happened in a simpler more exciting time in this country.
Gene remembers everything about the early days of LS Thankfully he had enough sense to stay off the alcohol and drugs He was a true friend to Ronnie that's just how fishing buddies are great story Gene
Love hearing Gene tell his stories. I know that he risks a lot telling the truth. Doesn't anyone who stands up for the truth. There's so much he has to tell and glad that we get to hear it while he is still alive. Thanks for the interview.
I totally agree. Everything else that followed after 10/20/77 was The Rossington Van Zant Band. They should have just done the agreed 10 Tribute Tour dates and then retired the name Lynyrd Skynyrd for ever.
@@tedperry6466 shady business aside, I think the "tribute" band has entertained millions and kept the music alive. I've seen them multiple times and grateful to hear the music.
@@bill6ft6 yeah that’s what I like about it. I got too see Lynyrd Skynyrd after the crash when I was 14 and that inspired me a lot as a musician. It’s definitely kept music alive
@@wildestcowboy2668 Check out the interview of Ed King with Marty Swartz. Very informative for guitar players. You’ll thank me later. You’re welcome. 🎸🎼
Gene,Friendships like you and Ronnie had are Unique.I'm so Glad you were there for him in life and in Death...Thank You for sharing your Stories and the TRUTH...P.S I would like to Buy a Curtis Loew TShirt...
New subscriber to your channel Gene but I have been a fan of the boys all my life. Born and raised in Jacksonvlle means Lynyrd Skynyrd is in my DNA. Thanks for sharing your experiences with all the fans. It means a lot to us. Peace to you Gene. If you ever want to do some fishing you are always welcome to go with me.
i remember artimus's signature on the power of 3, with the word "protest" on the contract sounds like he knew things were going to change an knew trust was an issue
Gene. Everyone should have a good friend like you . You stood up for the truth. Ronnie is looking down on you giving you the thumbs up and saying thank you my good friend and fishing buddy.
You are a damn good friend sir. More than just a fishing buddy, good friend. Loyalty is a rare trait. Looking forward to more truth from you. THANK YOU.
You know in a past interview Gene said that Ronnie has told him long time ago that Gary could not be trusted ...really sad how ppl lets money get in the way of friendships ....regardless of that fact the "original" LS will always be my favorite and there will NEVER be another ronnie imo 💜💜💜💜
don't think it's about money. I think Gary was pissed that Judy had so much power. Gary was a founding member, so I'm sure he can't be too happy being Judy's bitch
@Anna Parada I was not slandering gary I LOVE gary rossington and I think he is absolutely amazing ....was just repeating what was told on another interview
@Anna Parada I love every member of LS cause they all were fantastic on the instrument they played.....allen was a monster on that guitar same as gary and Steve.....i dont like some things that artimus has said and done but ive got to admit he could bang those drums....bottom line is they were the best ever and you know things happen that we have no idea about so all we have to go on is hearsay ....i just shrug my shoulders and turn the music up and enjoy ......best wishes to you also 😊😊
@@scrapeyhawkins5299 because her husband wrote most of the song lyrics the song writer gets the lion share of money more than the music writers as it is,the thing is they all did the work to make those songs hits. she could live of the royalty money the musicians needed the shows.Gary and Allen could have done okay,but Billy and Leon would get all most nothing and there was a lot of money to be made from the shows.she must have liked that money because deals were made and the shows went on.like it or not it's business and people got bills to pay they need the work not just the band all the people who manage and work for or promote the shows.like he said there paying Allen family as well.
Gene I really appreciate you telling these stories I’m only 15 and I’m already the biggest Skynyrd fan around, but Allen Collins is my idol and I would really appreciate it if you could tell some stories about him
Gene is the one survivor who tells it like it is. I also love the stories he tells of those days. Please, I would really like to see Gene's written sketch of who was where on N55VM that evening. I had always hoped he would draw it out. Please convey to Gene how happy I am to hear what he has to say. Ronnie has been, and always will be my hero. Thank you!
Being a musician & knowing how that world works, none of this is no surprise. That reunion wasn't about a tribute, wasn't about the Fans, not even about RVZ! It was about the big money machine & GR trying to say "Now That Ronnie's Gone I Run This Show Judy!They capitalized on the bands name & the Van Zant name since the reunion (if ya call it that?) & still are. & getting Ronnie's doppelganger bro to take his place, it was all in bad taste from the beginning & done for nothing but money! & now Gary's even gone, his wife will take over ownership of everything he had, so I'd say there prob won't be no more Skynyrd tours. There's not 1 original member left, what's the point? Just like this "Pantera Reunion", how can it be a reunion with half the members deceased? It's all about the money, props to G Odom
Ronnie knew something was up where Gary was concerned, he didn't trust him towards the end and not sure how long before that but judging by the things Gene was just saying here it seems Ronnie's intuition was pretty spot on. Cant believe some of the things Gary said about the band the music and how easily he could betray Ronnie mind blowing.
I was born in 1985, in Jacksonville, Fl. and i still live here.. Too late to see the real Lynyrd Skynyrd Band though. It's awesome to hear these stories. I wish I could sit and talk to Mr. Gene and hear some of these stories in person.
HEY Gene ,❤ u dog , Maybe thats why Ronnie loved u ,i worked Hlwd Fla, early 80s saw Johnny in a shit Bar, he tribute band, rescpet, for Ricky Matlock, Ronnie, Great American Poet, i hope he was happy to see Gary❤
I like Gene's version of the history of Skynyrd, but so many people overlook the fact that Ronnie bullied a lot of people into getting on that plane when they made it clear they did NOT want to get on. They had a full day between the time the plane took off and the next show to figure out another way to get to Baton Rouge, even if it meant postponing or canceling the show. Ronnie, Gary, Allen, Artimus, Billy, Leon, Steve, EVERYONE knew the plane was a POS, and had complained about the sputtering and fire shooting from the engines. Even the crew members. Ronnie literally bullied people into boarding the plane. Cassie Gaines was so scared she was crying about it. Allen argued with Ronnie. Ronnie's attitude was, "If it's your time, then it's your time." Yes, the pilots screwed up, but it doesn't take away from Ronnie's choices. Everyone knew Aerosmith had used that POS plane and had refused to use it again. It's like, DUH, no brainer.
Gene spoke to pilot before Lakeland FL show,pilot mcready made it clear he was the pilot and called the shots.He wouldn't wait on a engine part,gene called him a fool
@@BillyBatchelor-nj2rk It still comes back to Ronnie being such an asshole about it. It was common sense that a flying tub of crap was too dangerous to risk. If he had really cared about the lives of his band and crew, they would have refused it, and flown Delta or Eastern Airlines to Baton Rouge.
I saw the Skynyrd tribute in 1988...a full year after the 1987 Tribute Tour, and Gene Odom came onstage, introduced by Lacey Van Zant, and hawked his book...I know for as fact it wasn't part of the original 10 city tour, so I think Gene has his dates a little confused, because he was still travelling with the band in '88
Same here. I saw the Tribute Tour in 1988. I bought Gene’s book. That was after the 10 shows Gene talking about. So either he’s lying ( about the first 10 Shows and he was gone after)here in this video or his memory is false. Somehow his story here parts of it at least, ain’t adding up?
Yep. If you read the opinion issued by the judge it shows that Gene’s version of the trial is a bit fanciful. I think that like most hangers-on, Gene will say a lot of things to stay relevant. I know he wants to make it seem that he broke the case open for his old fishin’ buddy but the facts show otherwise.
LS will always be in my top 5. The band as of today I wouldn't feel right going to see. I'm 37 years old and grew up on LS, Pink Floyd, Zeplin, Rush, Boston etc. I wasn't alive for the plane crash, but I still feel sorrow over it and what happened afterwards was downright a tragedy as well. I wish these guys were still alive bc I'd love to hear more songs from them. I spent many years near Jacksonville in Amelia Island and have spent most of my years from outside of Atlanta. Lynard Skynard is a legend. This channel should have way more subs.
@@DavidLee-rx6uo That's a shame. Didn't know that about Gary and Allen at the end. Allen was in a wheelchair at the end. So sad. I guess after the accident it all changed for Allen. Hope the others in the band did reach out to Allen after he was a paraplegic. Wow! smh
@@DavidLee-rx6uo I once heard Artimus say that when Allen was on his death bed nobody in the band wanted to go see him until he strongly encouraged them to.
It wasn't a miracle. It was hard work, dedication, passion and destiny ... Bob being smacked upside the head with a baseball that brought together the greatest assemblage of talent in the history of music
Gotta love a guy like Gene, who doesn't pull any punches and you know EXACTLY what he means when he speaks. Yes, I feel bad that the world lost two geniuses like Ronnie Van Zant and Steve Gaines, and fans were robbed of where a newly rejuvenated Skynyd would've gone musically, but moreso, I feel bad that this man lost his best friend in 1977, and the last thing Ronnie knew was chaos and something about the plane crashing. Gene has said that Ronnie was asleep and Gene grabbed him, shoved him into a seat and told him to buckle his seat belt because the plane was going down, but Ronnie was out of it from taking some sleeping pills and was like hey, leave me alone. Such an awful tragedy that didn't have to be.
Went Lee, grew up off of Stockton Street. Go to go to the studio across from the Y. Worked at the Holiday Inn and got to know the sound engineer who would take me with him. I was 17 when the crash occurred, remember seeing them at the coliseum when JVZ could not complete the show. My mom and dad used to go to the original Little Brown Jug before it moved to Edison Avenue. Love the Pig, Buddy Ezells and the West Side.
Time Codes
0:00 - Start
0:24 - The miracle of Lynyrd Skynyrd
3:21 - The blood oath agreement
9:20 - The tribute show of 1987
15:12 - The Lawsuit
18:02 - The book agreement
21:25 - The magic book
25:15 - After the tribute show
28:33 - The Lynyrd Skynyrd memorial
29:42 - QUESTIONS FROM TH-cam
It's really cool the way you stood for what's right. Just learned about you recently and glad I did.
i know im asking randomly but does anybody know of a trick to log back into an instagram account..?
I was dumb lost the password. I love any tips you can give me!
@Ronnie Rayan Instablaster :)
@Jeremiah Easton Thanks for your reply. I got to the site on google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff atm.
Seems to take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Jeremiah Easton It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy!
Thank you so much, you really help me out!
I grew up on the west side of Jacksonville with all these guys though the 60s and 70s. Gene is an honest guy and I believe every word. Thank you Gene.
After watching many ,oh so many of Gene's interviews and documentaries on Skynard,I believe this about gene odom.What you see is what you get.Straighty one eighty.
Was hanging on every word!!!!!! Thank you Gene Odom for standing up for Ronnie! You’re a true friend! ❤️
Fr
The most honorable man involved in anything post-crash, hands down. God Bless you Gene!
It’s nice to see someone that knows friendship is worth more than money. A very respectful trait to have.
This video deserves 1 MILLION views at least, due solely to what really took place during that lawsuit. Gene Odom is the model for what a true, lifelong, and loyal friend should be. He could've easily been bought off, but he chose the moral high ground by defending his dead friend and his children. Much respect & admiration to you Gene.
Although it cost Gene money, he gained integrity. Al Collins stood in his truth to his deceased friend and business partner by notarizing the agreement.
@@ladypaul7932 Amazing that he was sober enough to stand with anyone. His drugs and alcohol is still affecting our family.
@@wildestcowboy2668 /I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you find peace soon.
@@ladypaul7932 Thank you for the kind words. For years we hated him for killing her. I do think Collins was sorry for it but it didn't bring her . Take care my friend.
@@wildestcowboy2668 You to dear, you to.
I love listening to Gene. He is just a wonderful person that speaks the truth about the best band ever!
I love hearing the stories. This world needs more stand up guys like Mr. Gene Odom.
What a true gentleman and hard for him to tell the stories
Out whole bunch & crazy stories He said She said. I believe Gene. Wish Allen still alive & settled this mess long time ago. Heard some crazy stories on Gary. Heard that was Gary's last tour during plane crash tour. Truth be interesting to know.
@@josearriola3087
Appears true. Gene appears type of friend we all wish we had.
I know this is out of nowhere and strange, but would you be interested in selling your Camaro?
@@johnmarksmith1120 If the price is right I would consider it.
I got nothing but respect for Gene Odom a real friend
Thank you Gene and Odom!
Gene Odom, thank you, and the God bless you
I could listen to Gene tell the stories of L/S all day long. Thanks Gene for all you do, especially for the sake of Ronnie.
You're a good man Gene and a good friend to Ronnie and Judy. I've watched many docs and interviews about what happened after the crash. I knew that there were some lawsuits etc but I had no idea about all of the backstabbing and how ugly it all was. What a shame.
I'm so happy that I can see this kind of stuff. Thanks to all involved in making Gene's stories possible and posting them. Gene your are the best.
This man Mr Gene Odom is a true friend.
A very honorable man for being such a true friend to Ronnie and his family. Its a shame that not everyone can say they have such a friend!
Love you Gene. You're an honorable man. God bless you.
Out of all the interviews I've seen of gene over the years! He went in pretty good detail about some things I haven't heard before! This was really fascinating!
@@musiccalgary take it up with gene !
"The thing-a-ma-jig-lady" I laughed, cried, kissed him on my phone. I love this man! I'm a hillbilly from Gum Holler, TN. This is real people!
We are Florida Swamp Billies. So we are cousins.
Wow
Gene is only guy (Gary most of the time) that has never changed his story about how things went down. Artimus' stories change by the hour and Billy's changed by the day
Yep. I'm very disappointed in Artimus
I ran into Billy many times her in Jacksonville. He’d said something in a interview. I’d ask him and it changed
Artimus isi alotta fun to listen to, though!
Maybe he smoked too much!🤣 i did read wherethose 2 girls on the beach admitted they were lying about Artimus. A little too late, if you ask me! They should be chargwd with perjury!
If I had time I could show u how many times Gene changed his story!
You're right! True and long time fans of Lynyrd Skynyrd who have heard all the interviews know all the times that his story has changed. Always to put the light on himself. He had his favorites and he has some enemies of the band, and his story always revolves around that. @@tomswink819
2:06. I agree, Allen Collins was the heart and soul of the guitar part of LS. His driving rhythms and gritty leads. Gary and Ed and then later Stevie were all great, but Allen was like what Malcom was to AC/DC
These interviews with Gene are important.
Gene, That was a great interview. Truly appreciate the up front honesty. It seems when people pass away and money's involved things are never easy. Together they all left some awesome music behind for the rest of us.
God Bless ya Gene, your a true friend of all Lynyrd Sknyrd fans !!! I wish your ol' fishing buddies estate would of done right and taken care of you !!!
I love listening to Gene tell stories and I like the interviewer too.. She has patience asks good questions and seems genuinely interested to hear Gene talk.. She's cute too and that helps as well... They make a good duo!! Don't stop we need more!!
Great interviewer. Asks a question and listens to the answer, doesn't interrupt. Excellent.
I didn't see the interest in her after she asked the question. Jumping around,no followups. Just looking at her phone to the next Question.
Love 2 have him on my podcast sometime
What's your podcasts name?... Check out the one Gene did with Ramsey Russell, the duck hunter..it's good!!!!
Fear-mongering radio on spreaker.com
Now I'm glad I always refuse to call the new Lynyrd Skynyrd Lynyrd Skynyrd and I always called them a glorified tribute band. There is no Lynyrd Skynyrd without Ronnie Van zant no disrespect to his little brother. I think his little brother does a fine job at singing those songs. But there's a lot more to Lynyrd Skynyrd than just someone who's capable of singing the song. There's a whole another aspect there's a spirit there's just a attitude that can't be replaced. I think it's awesome that Gene Odom still here able to defend and speak up for Ronnie.
Been over 4. 35 years
Gene is a hell of a man.... I'm sure Ronnie is smiling in heaven ....
I hope Ronnie is in heaven, do you know if he ever got saved?
I would love to see him when I get there!!
@@turkwelsch So basically your saying u can get saved, then drink, do drugs, screw dif girl every show (don't ask me) never go to church and go to heaven?
@@wildestcowboy2668
So let me flip the script on you my friend, what you are saying is if you stop drinking and you go to church and you clean up your life morally then you will go to heaven? Well then you’re a man who’s trying to be saved by his works and not the blood of Jesus Christ alone. This therefore would make you an unsaved man who will go to hell when he dies.
@@turkwelsch No sir I was asking since gene and artimus said Ronnie drank and snorted drugs and cheated on his wife and basically lived the life opposite of a Christian all he had to do was run over to a preacher and get saved and back to the bottle again etc. What's your thoughts on that? Not asking you to judge but he was pretty good at the wild life.
@@wildestcowboy2668
The Bible teaches that we have all sinned, when a person is saved and becomes a Christian and they believe that Jesus Christ died for their sins and was buried and rose again on the third day.
Those are the conditions that God set.
That person can now go on to live a Christian life in which all people struggle to do what is right. Some do better than others, Unfortunately since we are human we all sin willfully to some degree or another after we are saved.
Yet we are still saved because we had no part in our own salvation to begin with, Christ did it all! Titus 3:5, Romans 3:28.
So to answer your question about if Ronnie would be in heaven or not the answer is yes. If he was truly saved he was sealed by the Holy Spirit promise to the day of redemption just like any other Christian will be.
God Bless you, Mr. Odom. Love hearing all your stories.
Back in the day, friends would never backstab a friend no matter what? Gene Odom was and still is Ronnie’s friend even after all these years.
That right there is what a true friend is. Ronnie Van Zant never had a truer friend than Gene Odom. He was a brother. That's a good man.
How do you know.hes the only one that talks?
Thank you Gene Odum for telling us about some of the bands history.
22:40 THAT IS INSANE HAHAHA GOOD FOR YOU GUYS LONG LIVE RONNIE VAN ZANT🕊️❤️
Ronnie can rest in peace, thanks Gene!!! God bless you!!!!
Gene's got it right Allen Collins was that band.
true what Gene said about Allen Collins he was the sound also one of the best guitar players that has lived
Yes. He had the driving rhythm and gritty leads.
Allen was such an exciting guitar player. I think he was one of the best rock guitarists. Gary , Ed, and Steve were excellent players but Allen played the best leads.
It's a True Blessing if we all can have at least 1 Truly Loyal Friends Like Gene in Our Lives that always stays with you, even in Death!
Im so glad to still have Gene around doing all these tours and interviews. I love hearing all the history and shennanigans the guys got up to and little stories to get insight into how these guys were and how it all happened in a simpler more exciting time in this country.
Gene remembers everything about the early days of LS Thankfully he had enough sense to stay off the alcohol and drugs He was a true friend to Ronnie that's just how fishing buddies are great story Gene
Hate to tell but gene was gone off to army when skynyrd was goin thru early years
One hell of an honorable man and friend you are. God bless you Gene. Long live Ronnie, you’ve sure done kept your part. Much respect sir.
Love hearing Gene tell his stories. I know that he risks a lot telling the truth. Doesn't anyone who stands up for the truth. There's so much he has to tell and glad that we get to hear it while he is still alive. Thanks for the interview.
Without Ronnie Van Zant there is no Lynyrd Skynyrd
I totally agree. Everything else that followed after 10/20/77 was The Rossington Van Zant Band. They should have just done the agreed 10 Tribute Tour dates and then retired the name Lynyrd Skynyrd for ever.
Agree
@@tedperry6466 shady business aside, I think the "tribute" band has entertained millions and kept the music alive. I've seen them multiple times and grateful to hear the music.
Agree 100 percent
@@bill6ft6 yeah that’s what I like about it. I got too see Lynyrd Skynyrd after the crash when I was 14 and that inspired me a lot as a musician. It’s definitely kept music alive
Love these story's! What a friend gene Is to Ronnie! Loved the book I was a Freebird!
This validates EVERYTHING IVE EVER SAID ABOUT ALLEN COLLINS!!. Rossington can "play" but Collins was the fucking riff master.. Gains was the shredder.
Lol ok I'll call bs. Allen was sober enough to get one song, Ed King was the best guitar picker that ever played with Skynyrd
@@wildestcowboy2668 Ed King was a monster on guitar! You are correct! I think Gary was their second best guitarist!
@@wildestcowboy2668
Check out the interview of Ed King with Marty Swartz. Very informative for guitar players. You’ll thank me later. You’re welcome.
🎸🎼
@@wildestcowboy2668whats your beef with Allen?
@@Bls-of1ld He murdered my cousin and basically got a slap on the wrist.
Gene,Friendships like you and Ronnie had are Unique.I'm so Glad you were there for him in life and in Death...Thank You for sharing your Stories and the TRUTH...P.S I would like to Buy a Curtis Loew TShirt...
It's 7:00pm 10/20/20 rest in peace to the deceased!
Amen
Yes..Thank you for acknowledging this sacred date...R.I.P. to those who passed...🙏
Mr. Odom, you sir are a great man and Ronnie was proud of you!
New subscriber to your channel Gene but I have been a fan of the boys all my life. Born and raised in Jacksonvlle means Lynyrd Skynyrd is in my DNA. Thanks for sharing your experiences with all the fans. It means a lot to us. Peace to you Gene. If you ever want to do some fishing you are always welcome to go with me.
Grew up on Northside . I know what you mean
i remember artimus's signature on the power of 3, with the word "protest" on the contract sounds like he knew things were going to change an knew trust was an issue
Gene. Everyone should have a good friend like you . You stood up for the truth. Ronnie is looking down on you giving you the thumbs up and saying thank you my good friend and fishing buddy.
You are a damn good friend sir.
More than just a fishing buddy, good friend. Loyalty is a rare trait. Looking forward to more truth from you.
THANK YOU.
Nice. Love Gene
Never get tired of hearing Gene
You know in a past interview Gene said that Ronnie has told him long time ago that Gary could not be trusted ...really sad how ppl lets money get in the way of friendships ....regardless of that fact the "original" LS will always be my favorite and there will NEVER be another ronnie imo 💜💜💜💜
don't think it's about money. I think Gary was pissed that Judy had so much power. Gary was a founding member, so I'm sure he can't be too happy being Judy's bitch
How did Judy get so much power any how?...because she's a widow? Is she a band member?.....or does she own the name some how
@Anna Parada I was not slandering gary I LOVE gary rossington and I think he is absolutely amazing ....was just repeating what was told on another interview
@Anna Parada I love every member of LS cause they all were fantastic on the instrument they played.....allen was a monster on that guitar same as gary and Steve.....i dont like some things that artimus has said and done but ive got to admit he could bang those drums....bottom line is they were the best ever and you know things happen that we have no idea about so all we have to go on is hearsay ....i just shrug my shoulders and turn the music up and enjoy ......best wishes to you also 😊😊
@@scrapeyhawkins5299 because her husband wrote most of the song lyrics the song writer gets the lion share of money more than the music writers as it is,the thing is they all did the work to make those songs hits. she could live of the royalty money the musicians needed the shows.Gary and Allen could have done okay,but Billy and Leon would get all most nothing and there was a lot of money to be made from the shows.she must have liked that money because deals were made and the shows went on.like it or not it's business and people got bills to pay they need the work not just the band all the people who manage and work for or promote the shows.like he said there paying Allen family as well.
More stories, as many as possible man. As a Skynyrd fan, I love this stuff.
What. An. Amazing. Story. Thank you. Gene. Keep them. Coming
Your an honorable man Gene Odom,your richer than you think!God bless you!
This is a fascinating interview. Lots of interesting Skynyrd history. Gene seems to be a great guy. And the interviewer is beautiful.
Gene I really appreciate you telling these stories I’m only 15 and I’m already the biggest Skynyrd fan around, but Allen Collins is my idol and I would really appreciate it if you could tell some stories about him
Hell man Allen was underrated players
@Jeff Collins Aren`t we all...
@Jeff Collins right he only wrote freebird when he was 17..a loser..tell us why u think he was a loser
You have great taste in music... especially for 15 years old...It's great to hear the fans are of all ages....#bestbandever
This man is amazing. Lord God please make more men like this
I seen Billy at an OrangePark strip mall in 79. He looked a bit tipsy. Was nice enough to shake my hand when I greeted him.
I saw the Johnny Van Zant band at the Worlds Fair park in Knoxville about 1990 and I loved it, Johnny had a great band
Very well done I met gene Odom when they did the tribute tour in Sacramento California back in 1987 or 1988
Gene is the one survivor who tells it like it is. I also love the stories he tells of those days. Please, I would really like to see Gene's written sketch of who was where on N55VM that evening. I had always hoped he would draw it out. Please convey to Gene how happy I am to hear what he has to say. Ronnie has been, and always will be my hero. Thank you!
I would think Ronnie’s ex wife would hook Gene with a little coin. They are making millions that they wouldn’t have made without his help.
No shit
We ll don't forget judy a gold digger to...she cut Tammy out over the years with money to .. and Tammy said this on interview i seen!
hahahhha judy part w any of that lynyrd skynyrd money??? 🤣🤣🤣 you must be joking
Judy is a greedy b!+ch.
Being a musician & knowing how that world works, none of this is no surprise. That reunion wasn't about a tribute, wasn't about the Fans, not even about RVZ! It was about the big money machine & GR trying to say "Now That Ronnie's Gone I Run This Show Judy!They capitalized on the bands name & the Van Zant name since the reunion (if ya call it that?) & still are. & getting Ronnie's doppelganger bro to take his place, it was all in bad taste from the beginning & done for nothing but money! & now Gary's even gone, his wife will take over ownership of everything he had, so I'd say there prob won't be no more Skynyrd tours. There's not 1 original member left, what's the point? Just like this "Pantera Reunion", how can it be a reunion with half the members deceased? It's all about the money, props to G Odom
Boy I'd like to listen to Gene autumn over a little jug of sipping whiskey listen to the skynyrd music all day long that'd be a fine day
I like Gene. Always has seemed like the most honest of the whole damn bunch.
Gene Odom.... thank you for being you!
How gracious of the host to let him speak without the typical media insulting interruptions
Skynyrd was lost way to soon so I really appreciate the behind the senes look at their tours and life, their memory will go on forever in their songs.
Ronnie knew something was up where Gary was concerned, he didn't trust him towards the end and not sure how long before that but judging by the things Gene was just saying here it seems Ronnie's intuition was pretty spot on. Cant believe some of the things Gary said about the band the music and how easily he could betray Ronnie mind blowing.
congratulations on the initiative of this channel! fans thank you!
I was born in 1985, in Jacksonville, Fl. and i still live here.. Too late to see the real Lynyrd Skynyrd Band though. It's awesome to hear these stories. I wish I could sit and talk to Mr. Gene and hear some of these stories in person.
If more men were built like Gene this Country would be in a better place! 🌠👏🙏
Gene you did your job totally , we love you gene , and Ronnie loves you too
Thank you so much for these wonderful stories ❤ Would love to visit one day....Gene Odom, what a wonderful man! All the best to you Gene...
HEY Gene ,❤ u dog , Maybe thats why Ronnie loved u ,i worked Hlwd Fla, early 80s saw Johnny in a shit Bar, he tribute band, rescpet, for Ricky Matlock, Ronnie, Great American Poet, i hope he was happy to see Gary❤
I really enjoy listening to your stories, thanks for sharing!
An honorable man and friend. God bless you. 🙏
I hope there will be more of these vlogs.
Gene will tell you the truth
He don't add nothing
Tells it exactly that way it was
I like Gene's version of the history of Skynyrd, but so many people overlook the fact that Ronnie bullied a lot of people into getting on that plane when they made it clear they did NOT want to get on. They had a full day between the time the plane took off and the next show to figure out another way to get to Baton Rouge, even if it meant postponing or canceling the show. Ronnie, Gary, Allen, Artimus, Billy, Leon, Steve, EVERYONE knew the plane was a POS, and had complained about the sputtering and fire shooting from the engines. Even the crew members. Ronnie literally bullied people into boarding the plane. Cassie Gaines was so scared she was crying about it. Allen argued with Ronnie. Ronnie's attitude was, "If it's your time, then it's your time." Yes, the pilots screwed up, but it doesn't take away from Ronnie's choices. Everyone knew Aerosmith had used that POS plane and had refused to use it again. It's like, DUH, no brainer.
All true.
Gene spoke to pilot before Lakeland FL show,pilot mcready made it clear he was the pilot and called the shots.He wouldn't wait on a engine part,gene called him a fool
@@BillyBatchelor-nj2rk It still comes back to Ronnie being such an asshole about it. It was common sense that a flying tub of crap was too dangerous to risk. If he had really cared about the lives of his band and crew, they would have refused it, and flown Delta or Eastern Airlines to Baton Rouge.
@@samlott99 exactly
thank you kindly Mr. Odom. MUCH RESPECT
Can I meet up and have gene on my channel in November when I come to Florida? Is there a contact we could set something up?
Now that would be awesome your good at what you do Jordan
I’ll get in contact with Gene and let you know if he’s available :)
Thank you Tory!
If you can email me at dazewithjordanthelion@gmail.com
Jordan Rules! Get some new stories outta him...
Gene , you are a good friend to Ronnie. He would be proud!!!
I saw the Skynyrd tribute in 1988...a full year after the 1987 Tribute Tour, and Gene Odom came onstage, introduced by Lacey Van Zant, and hawked his book...I know for as fact it wasn't part of the original 10 city tour, so I think Gene has his dates a little confused, because he was still travelling with the band in '88
Same here. I saw the Tribute Tour in 1988. I bought Gene’s book. That was after the 10 shows Gene talking about. So either he’s lying ( about the first 10 Shows and he was gone after)here in this video or his memory is false. Somehow his story here parts of it at least, ain’t adding up?
Yep. If you read the opinion issued by the judge it shows that Gene’s version of the trial is a bit fanciful. I think that like most hangers-on, Gene will say a lot of things to stay relevant. I know he wants to make it seem that he broke the case open for his old fishin’ buddy but the facts show otherwise.
LS will always be in my top 5. The band as of today I wouldn't feel right going to see. I'm 37 years old and grew up on LS, Pink Floyd, Zeplin, Rush, Boston etc. I wasn't alive for the plane crash, but I still feel sorrow over it and what happened afterwards was downright a tragedy as well. I wish these guys were still alive bc I'd love to hear more songs from them. I spent many years near Jacksonville in Amelia Island and have spent most of my years from outside of Atlanta. Lynard Skynard is a legend. This channel should have way more subs.
You're a good friend Gene. Respect Sir.
Nothing but respect for this man.
My friend who met and hung out for a time with the new band didn`t like Gary. The rest were cool according to him. Thanks Gene. Subscribed.
Yes I know Gary was least likable him and Allen wasn’t on speaking terms at end
@@DavidLee-rx6uo That's a shame. Didn't know that about Gary and Allen at the end. Allen was in a wheelchair at the end. So sad. I guess after the accident it all changed for Allen. Hope the others in the band did reach out to Allen after he was a paraplegic. Wow! smh
@@DavidLee-rx6uo I once heard Artimus say that when Allen was on his death bed nobody in the band wanted to go see him until he strongly encouraged them to.
@@bloppysloppy2283 Oh I heard that also.
It breaks my heart
Gene still keeping Ronnie and the guys a live
It wasn't a miracle. It was hard work, dedication, passion and destiny ... Bob being smacked upside the head with a baseball that brought together the greatest assemblage of talent in the history of music
😅
Love these interviews, I can hear them all day. Does Gene and Judy Van Zant still talk or still friends?
It's been amazing hearing your stories. Really changed my perspective on the new band
I love listening to Gene Odum and his books are great !!
Gotta love a guy like Gene, who doesn't pull any punches and you know EXACTLY what he means when he speaks. Yes, I feel bad that the world lost two geniuses like Ronnie Van Zant and Steve Gaines, and fans were robbed of where a newly rejuvenated Skynyd would've gone musically, but moreso, I feel bad that this man lost his best friend in 1977, and the last thing Ronnie knew was chaos and something about the plane crashing. Gene has said that Ronnie was asleep and Gene grabbed him, shoved him into a seat and told him to buckle his seat belt because the plane was going down, but Ronnie was out of it from taking some sleeping pills and was like hey, leave me alone. Such an awful tragedy that didn't have to be.
Gene, you are a man to ride the river with!
Went Lee, grew up off of Stockton Street. Go to go to the studio across from the Y. Worked at the Holiday Inn and got to know the sound engineer who would take me with him. I was 17 when the crash occurred, remember seeing them at the coliseum when JVZ could not complete the show. My mom and dad used to go to the original Little Brown Jug before it moved to Edison Avenue. Love the Pig, Buddy Ezells and the West Side.
It's a shame how money and fame destroy the best of friends.
Great band , great music
Thanks for sharing,Sir. Hat's off...
My father (RIP) bought me a copy of Gene's book. I will always treasure it.
Gene has a good memory...that's great he can tale them stories