Time Codes: 0:00 - Start 1:05 - Evening before the plane crash 3:12 - Was it manager’s fault? 4:11 - Piles of cash in suitcase. 5:18 - Lots of cash, but no fuel 6:17 - Cash and drugs on the plane crash zone. Fact or fiction? 7:10 - Ronnie Van Zant was stuck by the unsecured TV. Fact or fiction? 13:55 - The last “hippie” handshake with Ronnie Van Zant. Fact or fiction? 16:08 - Pilots were incompetent? 17:27 - Gene’s character in the movie. 18:17 - Topless girls in the LS parties. Fact or fiction? 19:03 - Dealing with crazy fan girls. How did Gene handle them? 20:03 - How did Ronnie deal with crazy fans? 21:31 - October 20th, 1977 22:52 - The legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd 25:23 - In the movie, Artimus went into flight attendant mode. Fact or fiction? 26:05 - Were people drunk on the plane? 27:45 - Special flight attendant for Lynyrd Skynyrd. Who? 28:08 - Expect the unexpected
@@marcusclements3370 I wasn't only going by what Gene Odom said. I was ALSO going by what others said who were there, like Jo Billingsley. And in essence, Gene did confirm what I'm asserting, albeit I'm paraphrasing. Ronnie DID put pressure to get on that obviously sick airplane on the others who didn't want to get on it. He might not have put a boot in their butt, but he did pressure them. It would've been EXTREMELY difficult for anybody to go against Ronny and not get on board. It's common knowledge you did NOT go against Ronny!
Okay, it seems everyone has watched the Street Survivors movie. I remember the night of October 20,1977 very well of course I wasn't a passenger in it. I just remember the guys who gave interviews after getting out of the hospital. They all seem to have different memories , I would listen to Gary Rossingtons account of it, Gene Odoms ,Artimus version hasn't changed since 1978, I think some of his is believable. Gary said in a 1978 interview that one of the engine's was leaking fuel , bc the pilot didn't realize it until the halfway point. They were trying to share fuel between the two engine's, at on point getting near to Baton Rouge when shifting fuel to the other engine a mistake was made which jettisoned the remainder of fuel out of the plane. This was what caused the crash , a mistake which could have happy to anyone. I know I have had car wrecks that were from me making mistakes. I don't think the pilots were incompetent at all , they were trying to get the fuel they had shared between the two engines, it was very difficult to do, after I've talked to a couple of experienced pilots about the manuever they were using. Artimus went for help with Billy Powell and I think on of the engineers, Arty and Billy were both injured, but we're trying to get help for their friends. Gene Odoms has I think the best memory of the crash. It's ashame all are dead now except for Gary, give him the respect he deserves as the true Street Survivor. I was going to go to buy tickets to the show the next day in Chattanooga TN. October 21,1977. When I got off from 2nd shift that night when I got into my car Free Bird was playing on the radio. After it ended the DJ gave the terrible news, Lynyrd Skynyrd's airplane had crashed. Our lives were changed forever. God Bless the men and women of Lynyrd Skynyrd , especially Mr Gary Rossingtons who is still playing the concerts. God Bless all of the fans who are still trying to find out how it happened. Good night all, Brother Gary.
@@afaceinthecrowd1983 what the f*** are you talking about you obsessed with Donald Trump this isn't a political channel the f*** are you talking about man
I love hearing Gene talk about growing up with Ronnie. He was a true, loyal friend to Ronnie Van Zant, and you can tell he loved him like a brother. Gene seems like a truly kindhearted person, and I believe his story is true.
Why is he misunderstood - He was a singer - a great songwriter He was the boss - He pressured everyone to get on the plane Period , end of story - The record company should have looked after their assets closer Hundreds of millions of dollars was lost -:Those people were fucking kids - I also don't believe there wasn't any drugs with them - Gene may not have had any but everyone else did -
@@davidrice3337 May have been drugs, when I met Ed he was clear drugs and Ronnie's bullying everyone is why he left. Ya there was drugs and Cassie didn't want to get on the plane, RVS was a big deal lol
What record straight? Artimus Pyle wrote the movie and was obviously also there. Different perspectives but how can you discredit one over another? You can't.
I've heard conflicting stories about the crash, & seen several documentaries about the band. I once sat down & wrote the names of every single person that was ever in Lynyrd Skynyrd. At that time, 32 people had been in & out of this band, and 17 of them were dead. That was several years ago, so that number is higher now.... But while tragedy & sorrow surrounds them, there is also so much love, happiness, joy, & friendship that you can hear in just about every L.S. song. They always have been, and always will be, my favorite band. .....fly on, Freebirds.
There's only one original member who is not dead and that's Gary. Rickey Medlocke was in the band before they made their first album but he was the drummer. The new Skynyrd that Gary tours with is a joke! Reminds me of a story an old historian told me - "I have an axe that belonged to Abraham Lincoln. It's had the handle replaced 3 times and the head replaced four times but it's Lincoln's original axe!" That's what the current version of "Lynyrd Skynyd" is. Pathetic.
9 Skynyrd members have passed since Oct 20, 1977. (2) of them were not RVZ era members, although Ronnie loved Hughie as a friend and leader of the Outlaws.. Honkette's, band managers, pilots not members of LS.
@@mrsgstd Very true; but, it is nice, that LS's music, lives on thru them, and has spanned, how many generations? Therefore, without the tribute band, others may not have ever cared to stop to learn about the original band, and all the great songs RVZ, and the boys wrote.
Bless you, Gene! I know Ronnie loves you like a brother still from heaven. You are a man of integrity and honor, thank you for sharing your memories with us!
I hope those we lost that day are resting at peace. We miss them and their wonderful talents. Thank you to Gene for telling your stories. I know it's hard reliving the crash and all. I'm grateful your stories are being recorded so we all know what really happened.
A few years ago I was dumb enough to venture back into the crash site and the thing that i will always remember (other than losing a pint of blood to mosquitos) was the trees that are all still lying around on the ground that had actually made contact with the plane. The only way anyone survived is that there wasn't any fuel to burn them up.
If you're not sure then you should be. Gene was the right hand to Ronnie. Best friends that were more like brothers. Genes version has always been consistent. And the rest of the band and family of the band took artimus to court and we're gonna sue him over the movie. Gene has no agenda other than true love and comradery and never once have you heard anyone of the members or wives say Gene is wrong or speak a negative word about him.
Like I said before on here I love Gene Odom and he does speak the truth this story never changes he's a real honest man and I totally agree with you God bless mr. Odom you can tell he struggles with his physical problems
I was blessed to see them on Oct 15th 1977 at the Hollywood Sportatorium in Hollywood Florida. That band was smokin that night!!! They were at the top of their game!! What a show!! 5 days later, Lynyrd Skynyrd would never be the same!! !☮️
I was at that show in Hollywood at the sport hole 10-15-77. I was upfront standing in front of Steve Gaines. I agree they were at the top of their game it was a phenomenal show
I saw them 15 to 20 times once in a bar before they were famous.Saw them 6 times in one year. I went to lots of shows back then and everywhere I went they seem to be on the bill.
Thanks to Mr. Odom for taking the time to share this with us. I don't think I will ever forget that Oct night when the news came over 96 rock of out Atl, Ga. For so many of us, this was the day our music died.
I was listening to 96 rock out of Atlanta Ga, I was 70 miles north doing my own thing at the time. This terrible news took all of the joy out of me for the next few days. I just couldn't believe it, not *Lynyrd Skynyrd* 😢
I had the honor of meeting Gene Odom at the Daytona Beach Bandshell a few years ago when he was promoting his latest book while showing support for the Skynyrd tribute band "Nuthin' Fancy" that was playing there that evening. Gene is about as down-to-earth and a straight shooter as you can get! When I told him after detailed explanation that I was there for the final Lynyrd Skynyrd meet and greet at the Altamonte Springs Mall on October 17th 1977 he personally handed me and signed one of the photographs taken there at that event! Thank you again Gene Odom! 😁🤘🎸
I’ve had always questioned Gene’s recollection of the events as the occurred as the plane went down and crashed. After years of watching various band members and crew interviews of what happened, one thing is very clear - Gene’s story is ALWAYS the same. It never varies in detail of what he experienced. We all know that if 10 of us see a car wreck, we’ll all see something a little different. But after years of watching interviews, I believe Gene’s story as to what went on with Ronnie is true and the most reliable.
The interviewer was surprised when he said it was smoking on the plane, she's too young to know this but they always smoke cigarettes on the plane all the time in the 1970s
Loved this interview. The amazing young lady giving the interview did an amazing job as well so, shout out to her for this and allowing Gene to just talk without interruption, minimal at most. Much obliged. Rock on Gene.
Even though Gene Odom wasn't employed by the band in the beginning, nobody knew Ronnie Van Zant more than Gene did. They grew up together since childhood and Gene has complete respect for Ronnie. I was looking forward to the movie "Street Survivors" and bought a copy the day it was released. I was only able to watch about 25 minutes before shutting it off. The movie was nothing but lies and tried to make Artimus Pyle as a superhero. Since the movie I have lost all respect for Artimus Pyle.
Pyle played himself up in movie as a bigger hero in South than Stonewall Jackson in 1862. Lol still laughing at Pyle after watching movie for free. B.S. PYLE should be on his us mail box at his home.
@@justnana13-klj40 Yes research him yourself. There shocking legal documents he try keep hidden but they public record to this day lifetime must be reg anywhere he go. Pleaded no contest in court.
How can you not love this gentle man. It’s fact that no one knew Ronnie better than Gene; friends since childhood growing up together. As we approach the 45th anniversary of the tragedy, Gene still puts himself out there to keep the memories of Ronnie and the band alive. It’s more than evident in this and other videos, how much grief he continues to carry and the pain that resurfaces when he goes into details. I had the pleasure of meeting Gene and getting him to personally sign my copy of “I’ll Never Forget You” at Charlie Daniels Volunteer Jam in Nashville ‘87 for the Tribute Tour debut show. He’s as down to earth and true as you can find. God bless you Gene for your loyalty and continuing to share your stories. There’s no doubt that Ronnie was proud and privileged to call you friend.
Every video or interview I've ever watched of Gene Odum he has never said anything different. Every time he tells the story it's always the same. Gene is a good and honest man.
another great interview with Gene,...thanx for sharing,....Movies almost always cause confusion,...because a lot of folks think if they see it in a movie,.its true,..and it rarely is.
Thank you for signing your book for me years ago! You’re a class act, Gene! Thank you for sharing these stories of the people and music so many of us still remember and hold dear!
These videos are great, & so valuable; Thank you! 💜 Feel I can trust Gene's accounts; seems a level-headed, honest person; refreshing, we all want truth not fiction. *If only RVZ hadn't undone that seat-belt! Another on the list of 'what ifs', but past is past. RIP, RIG. x
She asked if they had parties with naked girls there. What an idiot. Also Gene explains if Ronnie's belt was buckled he quite possibly could be alive, she then says "maybe its for the best".
@@RYANDEOROCK she said that after gene said “Ronnie died not knowing that the plane was crashing” she said maybe that’s for the best, meaning he didn’t have to panic like everyone else
Poor girl trying her best but very hard understand her by a Appalachian Mountain guy. Hope she got GPS in our area. She get lost we never could understand her hardly no matter how hard we try.
Ya he seemed like the perfect catalyst needed to propel them to that next incredible level of pure beautiful rockn roll creativity, energy & wicked licks…
I'm glad this popped up on my screen. I seen Street Survivor and thought it was true. I'm glad this is on here it's nice to actually hear the TRUTH! This guy seems genuine and sincere. Thanks for putting this on here and I am glad I found this. R.I.P TO RONNIE, CASSIE AND STEVE the others.
I, by chance was just talking with a guy while working at a doctors in Nashville. He told me he was Frank Howard and he survived the crash. What a story. Afterward I looked it up doubting it was true. And it was. Same guy. He is still in pain and will never be right. This was in 2018. Really nice fellow.
This is a psiop just like all other major events any and all famous entertainment people are gender swapped FTM and MTF you do not become famous in this world if you're not inverted gender swapped
With the exception of Billy Powell, no one else changed their story either. Gene's whole weird hang up with Artimus Pyle is very off putting. Other survivors have recounted Artimus actively preparing them for the crash. It's almost like Gene doesn't think anyone else is around to fact check him.
Gosh this was great! I've been fan since i was a kid and I've always followed up on clips & documentaries. Gene you're so personable and genuine- thank you so much for sharing these much appriciated moments/ memories🎶💝
When I first got into the Skynyrd history and the plane crash I thought that Gene was more like a hanger on around the band. Now some years later and after seeing and hearing so much from him and a few other interviews; I realize how much Gene really loved Ronnie and the whole band in a way that he would have done anything for them to help them to be more sane and responsible people. I think if Gene could go back in time he would selflessly trade places with Ronnie in that plane crash so that we would have Ronnie with us longer than we did. Gene is a Good dude in my opinion and I was Wrong to think that he was just looking to hang around Ronnie for some type of fame. Sorry Gene; I judged you wrongly and please accept my apology for doing so.
Gene Odom and Ronnie Van Zant were best friends from childhood and Gene Odom was brought on board to try to keep the band clean on that last tour. I would take Gene's word about the situation over anybody else's. There's also a very good interview with the sound man who was on the plane to and it really lays out what happened during the crash
I think he still is. Of course he loved Ronnie, and of course he would do anything for him but same with a room of 30 women. He was hired because he was reliable in a bar fight. That doesn't mean ya'll best friends. I go to the bar with very specific people for the sole purpose of fighting but would never invite those people to my house because they are not my "best" friends. It's became very obvious in another video where he takes interviewers to the grave sites and doesn't even know what a coil of guitar strings were. Anyone who was close to a guitar band like that would recognize guitar strings. He thought they were "bracelets in a plastic wrapper". He is just riding the legacy of that band. It's not like he's some fantastic kind of dude that's done for the world, he was hired to do a job because he's a scrapper. Plain and simple.
@@TempoDrift1480 You're an idiot. I've played guitar for 60 years and sometimes I see guitar strings in packs I can't be sure what's in them. How the hell do you know what he was hired for???????
Dear Gene. I saw Ronnie & Skynyrd two nights in a row with front row seating at the Grand Strand Music Festival at Myrtle Beach SC in 1975 with 38 Special. I was stationed at Myrtle Beach AFB while it was still open and saw the itinerary posted in the BX. I know you've heard this from many Skynyrd fans, how Ronnie's music influenced & helped many for various reasons. I was a budding bass player, and the Southern Rock genre was my music of choice. So, that's what I cut my bass chops on. I have one question for you if you have the time and if it's permissible to answer, if not, I do understand. You spoke once, concerning Artimus Pyle, how Ronnie was contemplating to fire him and hire Steve Gaine's brother to take over the drum chair. Did Artimus do something really bad to P O Ronnie? The only reason I ask is a Artimus only speaks highly of Ronnie, always heaps praises about him. Again, I understand if you can't answer that question due to good form, ect. There'll never be another Lynyrd Skynyrd band in my opinion. It ended when the plane crashed. Thank you Gene for all you do.
Really? I missed this part or haven't seen it yet, the part about RVZ thinking of firing Artemus. And, I've noticed, Artemus only has the highest praise for Ronnie. You're right about that. (Ya Got that right!) I know Gary and Artemus, had some kind of argument, and they got rid of Artemus; and in my opinion, that was a big mistake for LS Tribute band to make. The more original members you have, the more legit you become; but, Skynyrd was over when they lost RVZ. Side thought, I have heard, the plane sat on the tarmac running for 45 minutes waiting for Artemus, and this very well could've been way the plane ran out of gas.
Skynyrd was my 1st rock concert 10/22/76 at The Music Hall,Boston,MA. I was 13yrs old and totally blown away by their musicianship. Tuesday’s Gone was my favorite song back then. The fateful crash (10/20/77) was almost ‘exactly’ 1yr after I saw them. R.I.P.
I went to Lee, worked at the Holiday Inn where I met Dave Evans who was a engineer on GMBMB. Got to tour the studio on Riverside Avenue across from the YMCA. Artimus was very nice to me. Wish they could reconcile, too old and too many years have passed not to. RVZ was a prolific songwriter but the guitar work of AC and GR got them started imo. RIP.
Poor Cassie Gains. She had bought a commercial ticket, but got in that plane anyway; but, when you think the pilots are risking their lives, too while saying, "Get on. It's fine." You get on.
From everything that I have read about the band, and it's been a lot, or watched there are a few undeniable facts: one is that RVZ and Gene were very close from boyhood up until Ronnie died. The other is that Gene was brought on that tour to try and keep the guys clean and sober, like he talked about taking all of the whiskey bottles from the band during their last performance. Ronnie wanted him to do that stuff. Keep the dealers away, keep the band, including Ronnie, straight etc. I don't think that Artimus or Steve Gaines had substance or alcohol issues, but Ronnie with his drinking, Allan, Gary, and Leon with their drugs and drinking, and Billy with his drinking, were all total abusers. I absolutely take Gene's versions of what happened at different times over Gary's or Billy's or Artimus', that's for sure. I certainly wouldnt dispute anything Mr. Odom has said
Not taking anyone’s side but when people go through tragic events memories are individualized. For example I’ve seen an interview with Pyle where he actually says some of the movie was fictionalized for “Hollywood”. Pyle had the interaction with Ronnie where he got the “smile” discussed when Ronnie left the card table to lay down. The movie does it differently. Every person on board that plane had a different story. It’s really a shame that they’ve lost good friendships by not understanding how people in tragedies and shock can’t recall events correctly. So many of the band members have not spoken for years when each person’s story really may be true to them. It’s called “false memories”. It’s actually quite common for people involved in such things to experience false memories. Pyle may have needed that memory to deal with it. It doesn’t mean any of them are lying.
It would be nice if the interviewer wasn't always on her phone ,the gentleman is trying to speak and tell a story and she's sitting there looking at her phone.
In the movie the DEA mistake Artimus' ginseng for narcotics, that was the only reference to drugs being found. And I'd love to see Gene and Artimus rehash the events of the plane crash in front of each other. Invite him on, Gene......
Genes is the only person whose story has never changed since it happened. Artimus story has evolved over time usually making himself look like a hero. When in reality he was hiding for 2 hours in the swamp.
If she knows that Gene dont want to talk about the movie, then why did she constantly ask him questions about the movie? He said, I haven't seen it, and I won't see it, Gene you are 1 hell of a Human being, God bless you
Thank you, Gene, for sharing this, I remember when my mom was extremely upset when the plane went down. I was just 7 but I grew up listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd and I still do. I'm from Georgia and I remember when Lynyrd Skynyrd had an album picture taken in Jonesboro ga, not sure of the year. I'm so very sorry for this tragedy. I love Lynyrd Skynyrd. Gene, God bless you always. Rip Ronnie, Cassie, Steve and Dean.
Not liking an accent doesnt make one a racist.. Not sure where you got that idea..I hate new Jersey accents personally, does that make me racist against people from Jersey? Lol come on chief.
One great guy whom has relived the plane crash for Steve and Cassies home town more than once and is always so gracious and emotional - we love him in Miami Oklahoma- God grant you peace and love Gene💙✌
Everyone has different memories, that along with the passage of time, in fighting, law suits and money are perfect ingredients for major discrepancies in any story. Their point of view isn’t going to change, especially if it makes them look bad. I watched the movie yesterday and it was enjoyable. I did keep in mind that it was told by Artemis and he has very different views from some of the others. What is true is that they made awesome music. Thank God more people were not killed. I graduated from high school in 1977. My children and grandchildren listen to and are fans of the band. They made great music together and the music lives on. No finer tribute than that!
Artimus no Artemis (it's a different story :D). But agree with the rest of your post. Keeping in my mind words of one history researcher: The worst source to restore any past event is to listen the memories of the participants - they are always distorted more than you can imagine...
Gene, I am investigating the causes of the crash in depth and feel I am close to finding the truth- from a strictly mechanical perspective. I am 4th generation engine mechanic and have been collecting aircraft manuals all my life. There are over 600,000 pages in my collection. Although not having worked on or flew the Convair CV series I am very familiar with the engines and propellers on them. The last thing I'd want to do is pry into your life about the crash for obvious reasons. However, It would be beneficial to ask some very specific questions beginning with the first sign of trouble on the final flight. I have the crash report and have listened to many interviews of witnesses and survivors. There are of number of things that don't jibe. If you have any interest please reply and I'll give you my email. After listing to your series it is clear you were a great and loyal friend to Ronnie and his wife. Much respect, brother and wishing you the best!
Gene said on the flight to Greenville the right engine had issues, blowing flame out the exhaust and running rough. When he approached the pilots the day of the final flight they were working that engine and said they were dealing with a magneto, but that carburetor needed work, and that the Transport company was sending a mechanic to Baton Rouge. Gene said he told them they had an extra day before they had to leave for Baton Rouge, so why not fix it there? They refused. From what I gathered it was a combination of an over rich running engine using too much fuel, inoperative gas guages and a failure to measure the fuel level before taking off.
Thanks to the very good interviewer and to you Gene, God bless you. I didn't know Ronnie but I loved his vocal talents behind the mike as well as in the studio. Gene from what I have heard about Ronnie, there is nothing you could have done differently. He called his own shots. It was fate. I miss Ronnie and Steve and Cassie and Dean but am very glad that you made it through to tell us fans the truth. You mentioned seeing All of them but I was wondering if you noticed Cassie or was she further back out of your view? Thanks Gene love you buddy Good bless you. Freebird!!!
Many of the actual band members despised Odom and have said that his stories constantly conflict with reality over the years. After the crash he always claimed that he and Ronnie were the best of friends, but Ronnie never said that. They knew eachother growing up. Odom was one of those guys who latched himself onto Ronnie's coattails trying to be part of the band, even though he didn't have a musical bone in his body, and has made a living off riding the legacy and always making sure to be front and center ever since the tragedy. He was hired and credited as "Security" and that's about the full extent of his involvement as a band member. Throughout all the different documentaries and interviews out there over the years, his story changes all the time. Gary and Ronnie were the ones who were best friends from the beginning and kind of took in Allen like their little brother, and I believe what they say 100% over anything Gene Odom has to say. Even as an elderly old man Gene Odom is still trying to bask in the spotlight of the crash and will say whatever he needs to say to try to remain relevant. Watch Gary's interviews instead of Odom's...
I went to boot camp in the Marines with Thomas Delmer Pyle, he was an honor Marine and our platoon guide. I can't believe he would make up a bunch of lies about the crash. Most of the lies I have heard were from Ronnies widow and Gary Rossington who dislike Artimus so much because he left the band in 1992 because they were still doing heavy drugs.
Artimus Thomas seems to be honorable and he was a marine which means he served his country and thats honorable , it seems us humans are really a bunch of nit pickers trying to find dirt on others , I'm dealing with an as hole brother myself, Artimus did say everyone had a different story and I believe him .
@@ljbull33 everyone has their perspective on their experiences, I learned in Vietnam that everyone sees the world through their own eyes and interprets it through their mind as it has learned. Some people you can't get through new ideas or a different perspective and it's better to leave them believing their own ignorant view.
@@DennisEHayes I agree. Gene is basing his experience and limited knowledge as the ultimate truth of everyone else's experience. Let alone, in this video, he contradicted his own statements. He says there were no drugs but then changed that story. He says Artimus went to the cockpit twice and then at 25:33 min mark, he says Artimus went to the cockpit only 1 time. These are very significant discrepancies. He speaks very dismissive of somone else's experience that was actually there as if only his version of the story is the only story that is accurate or has any validity.
And they don't play the best of Skynyrd on the radio. The whole album give me back my bullets was awesome. All I can do is write about it, cry for the bad man, Mississippi kid, upon many upon many of great other ones that can be searched !!!
It was tragic for me to learn, that Ronnie referred to himself, as the Mississippi Kid, not knowing why. Again, I respect Gene alot; but, wish he and Gary, and some of the other survivor's, would've been a part of this movie. Because they chose not to, we have one perspective of one man for this movie. Don't knock Artemis, please. But, an interesting thing, Gene said, was that the plane, sat running on the tarmac for 45 minutes, waiting for Artemis. Could've been a big reason, the plane ran out of gas. Not blaming, just saying.
@@lolitagrant6751 sounds about right! Artimus seems to act like he’s not about the money yet nobody that was affiliated with Skynyrd wanted anything to do with his project. I think that speaks to the authenticity of the movie!
Yes, it's sad all the way around, A band that ended way too soon, and a plane crash that took lives too soon, we will never know what they would have become. So now they are free birds and their music will live on in our heart and souls and will never die. So honor them by playing their music, keeping it alive and what memories you do have in your heart and soul. And if you want the truth get it from the horse's mouth. Like Gene Odom, Band Members, and the Rescuers that were there that night.
Sounds like Gene was blaming Artemis cuz they had to wait on him at the airport and if they didn't have to wait they may not have ran out of fuel. The plane was running the whole time that they were waiting, & the engine was running rich causing it to use more fuel. A.pyle gets emotional when he talks about it, so he might blame himself also. If I thought it was his fault the plane ran out of fuel, I would be unhappy with him too.
The main engines weren't running. It was the APU in the rear of the plane that ran out of fuel. It's been told that the planes fuel gauges were inoperative and the fuel levels were checked with a stick; no one recalled that having been done that day.
Hello Gene, I have a question about Skynyrds second to last show at the Lakeland Civic Center on October 18th 1977. I was at that show and had seats behind the stage. At some point during the show I recall seeing Artimus kick over his drum kit in the middle of a song and yelling at who I thought might have been Gary Rossington. I'm not really sure if it was Gary or not because it was so long ago. I have wondered all these years about what had happened on stage that night. I remember seeing the stage crew scrambling to get his drum kit back together. If you or anyone else remember what happened that night you would be answering a 40 year old question that I still hold to this day. Thanks Gene, I enjoyed your post. Long Live Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Have you ever thought of asking Artimus Pyle himself since it was his experience and not Gene's experience? 😁 Artimus Plye is still alive and kicking 🥁🎶btw 🤔
@@learntoswim9291 If I knew how to get in touch with him, I would. Celebrities are usually very guarded when it comes their privacy. Do you know a way to contact him?
He is wrong about Ronnie's cause of death, Gene says he was asphyxiated , but the official cause of death is Blunt force trauma, which is consistent with Artemus Pyle's version.
Wrong. Judy Van Zandt actually provided a copy of the coroner's report on her husband Ronnie which stated although Ronnie did have a contusion to his head, his actual cause of death was asphyxiation from being caught under the rubble of the crash too long before he was found. Artimus is a liar. They proved he lied about being shot that day too.
I've heard several different stories from different members of the band, most of them have changed their story for some reason, the only ones that always remain the same are this guy n Artemis Pyle, even though they may differ they never change, from all that trauma they're bound to remember things differently, but in my opinion the 2 who never changed their stories are telling the truth to the best of their recollections
I believe every word Gene is true. I personally know most of the Odom family because they all my cousins. My Aunt Annie Mae raised honest children. I didn't get to know Gene because he was already traveling with Ronnie and the band. I admire him for his life long friendship with Ronnie and keeping Gary from the hostile takeover.
Gene always stays consistent in his story even when he tells about the fight he wouldn't let his dead fishing buddy (Ronnie) money be stolen from by Gary Rossington and Gene testified in court.
This was so interesting! I feel like out of all the videos I've seen on this subject even from others who were there, that Gene is the one person who is actually telling the real story. I watched that stupid Street Survivors the other night and thought it was ridiculous. They make it like Artimus single handily saved all the survivors himself with super human strength. (I love Gene's description of it as "his own psychotic fairy tale" LOL!) I didn't realize Jo Jo had been fired, can Gene elaborate on that at all? I've seen videos that she has done and she said something along the lines of Ronnie saying he wanted her back, that he "needed her" whatever that means! Anyway, please keep the videos coming Gene, you sound like one of the only rational people who know the story! Also is it true that Judy was not kind to Tammy?
Gene, I live in Savannah Georgia and have a question. Do you remember if the aircraft made an unscheduled stop in Savannah, Georgia enroute to Greenville?? My brother worked at Savannah Air Service and may have refueled the plane. If it did not stop and went straight to Greenville, please let me know. It may have been another aircraft. Thank you, Bob Newell.
Time Codes:
0:00 - Start
1:05 - Evening before the plane crash
3:12 - Was it manager’s fault?
4:11 - Piles of cash in suitcase.
5:18 - Lots of cash, but no fuel
6:17 - Cash and drugs on the plane crash zone. Fact or fiction?
7:10 - Ronnie Van Zant was stuck by the unsecured TV. Fact or fiction?
13:55 - The last “hippie” handshake with Ronnie Van Zant. Fact or fiction?
16:08 - Pilots were incompetent?
17:27 - Gene’s character in the movie.
18:17 - Topless girls in the LS parties. Fact or fiction?
19:03 - Dealing with crazy fan girls. How did Gene handle them?
20:03 - How did Ronnie deal with crazy fans?
21:31 - October 20th, 1977
22:52 - The legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd
25:23 - In the movie, Artimus went into flight attendant mode. Fact or fiction?
26:05 - Were people drunk on the plane?
27:45 - Special flight attendant for Lynyrd Skynyrd. Who?
28:08 - Expect the unexpected
Great. The interviewer is a beautiful girl.
Ronnie is responsible. He said to the others "get on the plane or you're fired". That's unconscionable.
@@garyginther6742 You need to watch the interview again. Gene Odom qualifies that issue quiet clearly.
@@marcusclements3370 I wasn't only going by what Gene Odom said. I was ALSO going by what others said who were there, like Jo Billingsley. And in essence, Gene did confirm what I'm asserting, albeit I'm paraphrasing. Ronnie DID put pressure to get on that obviously sick airplane on the others who didn't want to get on it. He might not have put a boot in their butt, but he did pressure them. It would've been EXTREMELY difficult for anybody to go against Ronny and not get on board. It's common knowledge you did NOT go against Ronny!
Okay, it seems everyone has watched the Street Survivors movie. I remember the night of October 20,1977 very well of course I wasn't a passenger in it. I just remember the guys who gave interviews after getting out of the hospital. They all seem to have different memories , I would listen to Gary Rossingtons account of it, Gene Odoms ,Artimus version hasn't changed since 1978, I think some of his is believable. Gary said in a 1978 interview that one of the engine's was leaking fuel , bc the pilot didn't realize it until the halfway point. They were trying to share fuel between the two engine's, at on point getting near to Baton Rouge when shifting fuel to the other engine a mistake was made which jettisoned the remainder of fuel out of the plane. This was what caused the crash , a mistake which could have happy to anyone. I know I have had car wrecks that were from me making mistakes. I don't think the pilots were incompetent at all , they were trying to get the fuel they had shared between the two engines, it was very difficult to do, after I've talked to a couple of experienced pilots about the manuever they were using. Artimus went for help with Billy Powell and I think on of the engineers, Arty and Billy were both injured, but we're trying to get help for their friends. Gene Odoms has I think the best memory of the crash. It's ashame all are dead now except for Gary, give him the respect he deserves as the true Street Survivor. I was going to go to buy tickets to the show the next day in Chattanooga TN. October 21,1977. When I got off from 2nd shift that night when I got into my car Free Bird was playing on the radio. After it ended the DJ gave the terrible news, Lynyrd Skynyrd's airplane had crashed. Our lives were changed forever. God Bless the men and women of Lynyrd Skynyrd , especially Mr Gary Rossingtons who is still playing the concerts. God Bless all of the fans who are still trying to find out how it happened. Good night all, Brother Gary.
This man seems to be very sincere. He lost his best friend and still can see his pain. God bless you Gene
Lol don't have clue do you 🤣
@@joshsmith4512 says the one four years late and just fell off the turnip truck. 😂
@@afaceinthecrowd1983 what the f*** are you talking about you obsessed with Donald Trump this isn't a political channel the f*** are you talking about man
@@afaceinthecrowd1983 bro what a fing BURN !! 🔥 😂 Haha 😆😂
I love hearing Gene talk about growing up with Ronnie. He was a true, loyal friend to Ronnie Van Zant, and you can tell he loved him like a brother. Gene seems like a truly kindhearted person, and I believe his story is true.
Ronnie is one of the most misunderstood frontmen in Rock history. He was truly a simple man. World ain't making men like him these days.
@Anna admirer Forever you were in good company
Why is he misunderstood -
He was a singer - a great songwriter
He was the boss - He pressured everyone to get on the plane
Period , end of story -
The record company should have looked after their assets closer
Hundreds of millions of dollars was lost -:Those people were fucking kids - I also don't believe there wasn't any drugs with them - Gene may not have had any but everyone else did -
@@davidrice3337 aren't you just a ray of sunshine
@@davidrice3337 - Yep.
@@davidrice3337 May have been drugs, when I met Ed he was clear drugs and Ronnie's bullying everyone is why he left. Ya there was drugs and Cassie didn't want to get on the plane, RVS was a big deal lol
You are the truthful man Gene, and you are most definitely the best friend anyone in this world could ever have. You're a legend my buddy
Thank you, Gene, for setting the record straight!
What record straight? Artimus Pyle wrote the movie and was obviously also there. Different perspectives but how can you discredit one over another? You can't.
I love the way the young lady allows him to answer her questions without interruption. These are great interviews.
I've heard conflicting stories about the crash, & seen several documentaries about the band. I once sat down & wrote the names of every single person that was ever in Lynyrd Skynyrd. At that time, 32 people had been in & out of this band, and 17 of them were dead. That was several years ago, so that number is higher now....
But while tragedy & sorrow surrounds them, there is also so much love, happiness, joy, & friendship that you can hear in just about every L.S. song. They always have been, and always will be, my favorite band.
.....fly on, Freebirds.
There's only one original member who is not dead and that's Gary. Rickey Medlocke was in the band before they made their first album but he was the drummer. The new Skynyrd that Gary tours with is a joke! Reminds me of a story an old historian told me - "I have an axe that belonged to Abraham Lincoln. It's had the handle replaced 3 times and the head replaced four times but it's Lincoln's original axe!" That's what the current version of "Lynyrd Skynyd" is. Pathetic.
@@mrsgstd :) well said
9 Skynyrd members have passed since Oct 20, 1977. (2) of them were not RVZ era members, although Ronnie loved Hughie as a friend and leader of the Outlaws.. Honkette's, band managers, pilots not members of LS.
❤💯
@@mrsgstd Very true; but, it is nice, that LS's music, lives on thru them, and has spanned, how many generations? Therefore, without the tribute band, others may not have ever cared to stop to learn about the original band, and all the great songs RVZ, and the boys wrote.
Bless you, Gene! I know Ronnie loves you like a brother still from heaven. You are a man of integrity and honor, thank you for sharing your memories with us!
I hope those we lost that day are resting at peace. We miss them and their wonderful talents. Thank you to Gene for telling your stories. I know it's hard reliving the crash and all. I'm grateful your stories are being recorded so we all know what really happened.
45 years ago today...
A few years ago I was dumb enough to venture back into the crash site and the thing that i will always remember (other than losing a pint of blood to mosquitos) was the trees that are all still lying around on the ground that had actually made contact with the plane. The only way anyone survived is that there wasn't any fuel to burn them up.
How far is the crash from the memorial? I’ve been to the memorial.
If you want the truth, listen to this man. He was there and he is honest. No axe to grind.
And he was sober through all of it. He has no agenda - very credible person.
What you said is the truth and nothing but the truth love this man
I'm not sure about that just yet
If you're not sure then you should be. Gene was the right hand to Ronnie. Best friends that were more like brothers. Genes version has always been consistent. And the rest of the band and family of the band took artimus to court and we're gonna sue him over the movie. Gene has no agenda other than true love and comradery and never once have you heard anyone of the members or wives say Gene is wrong or speak a negative word about him.
Like I said before on here I love Gene Odom and he does speak the truth this story never changes he's a real honest man and I totally agree with you God bless mr. Odom you can tell he struggles with his physical problems
I love listening to Gene's stories. He has gone through so much. God Bless you Gene Odom!!!
43 Years ago today 10/20/1977 R.I.P. my friends
It's hard to think it has been 43 year's since this, Ronnie and the boys gave everyone such great music, that's dating everybody!!!
Wow I remembered that I was so young I really thought I was older because of how I felt...Damn
I was blessed to see them on Oct 15th 1977 at the Hollywood Sportatorium in Hollywood Florida. That band was smokin that night!!! They were at the top of their game!! What a show!! 5 days later, Lynyrd Skynyrd would never be the same!! !☮️
I also saw them in ‘77 I think it was April of ‘77 at the Oklahoma fairgrounds. A few months later we lost a part of us.
I was at that show in Hollywood at the sport hole 10-15-77. I was upfront standing in front of Steve Gaines. I agree they were at the top of their game it was a phenomenal show
Man you guys are lucky! I was 12 when the plane crashed! But was s Big Fan! I just got my street survivers album! And the ghe bad news.
I saw them 15 to 20 times once in a bar before they were famous.Saw them 6 times in one year. I went to lots of shows back then and everywhere I went they seem to be on the bill.
@@anthonyfoutch3152 That's great!
This guy has a TH-cam channel! Fellow Southerner right here and die hard Lynryd Skynyrd fan..my parents were both huge fans💚
Me and my husband are die hard fans to Holly from Minnesota where lynryd skynyrd was and still is very popular
I am sorry to say 😔 you are right we the people
@@shellyweiers121 Yankees are silly, bunch of Joe Biden loving gun banning clowns up in sota.....
Thanks to Mr. Odom for taking the time to share this with us. I don't think I will ever forget that Oct night when the news came over 96 rock of out Atl, Ga. For so many of us, this was the day our music died.
I was listening to 96 rock out of Atlanta Ga, I was 70 miles north doing my own thing at the time. This terrible news took all of the joy out of me for the next few days. I just couldn't believe it, not *Lynyrd Skynyrd* 😢
I’d be honored to buy Gene a couple beers. Great interview, and I appreciate you not interrupting him while he was talking. Awesome job
Gene has never drank or done drugs. Buy him a Coke maybe.
@@marcclement7396 A coke or a nice glass of ice tea is fine by me.
I had the honor of meeting Gene Odom at the Daytona Beach Bandshell a few years ago when he was promoting his latest book while showing support for the Skynyrd tribute band "Nuthin' Fancy" that was playing there that evening. Gene is about as down-to-earth and a straight shooter as you can get!
When I told him after detailed explanation that I was there for the final Lynyrd Skynyrd meet and greet at the Altamonte Springs Mall on October 17th 1977 he personally handed me and signed one of the photographs taken there at that event! Thank you again Gene Odom! 😁🤘🎸
Love your videos Gene.
I'm glad Ronnie reached out to you to help him change his life. Hence. Security.
You were truly a trusted friend.
R.i.p Ronnie!
I’ve had always questioned Gene’s recollection of the events as the occurred as the plane went down and crashed. After years of watching various band members and crew interviews of what happened, one thing is very clear - Gene’s story is ALWAYS the same. It never varies in detail of what he experienced. We all know that if 10 of us see a car wreck, we’ll all see something a little different. But after years of watching interviews, I believe Gene’s story as to what went on with Ronnie is true and the most reliable.
Yes I agree, and Artimus Pyle's story changed often...
To bad they could not find a interviewer who actually lived during these times.
Or one who knows who LS is 🤔
She is horrible
Shut up and let the man finish.....
@@Gunsandfun1961 but "in the movie... also, in the movie..." 🥱
She's just doing a job. Lay off.
The interviewer was surprised when he said it was smoking on the plane, she's too young to know this but they always smoke cigarettes on the plane all the time in the 1970s
@@chucky2569 Another thing that amuses me is the fact that she seems surprised that there were nude women around rock musicians back then.
I very much enjoyed this interview!
To hear those details....wow, both heartbreaking and chilling at the same time :(
Loved this interview. The amazing young lady giving the interview did an amazing job as well so, shout out to her for this and allowing Gene to just talk without interruption, minimal at most. Much obliged. Rock on Gene.
Mr Odom seems like a straight shooter, tells it like it was without BS. Good interviewer.
Yessir.. she's hot. She's certainly of those dumb ones, however, sure...she's doable.
Gene Odom will give it to you straight! I cherish my friendship with him. Great fella!
the way he remembers things. Most everyone's go foggy.
The flight attendant was Dean Kilpatrick was so comical, I'm still laughing.
Even though Gene Odom wasn't employed by the band in the beginning, nobody knew Ronnie Van Zant more than Gene did. They grew up together since childhood and Gene has complete respect for Ronnie. I was looking forward to the movie "Street Survivors" and bought a copy the day it was released. I was only able to watch about 25 minutes before shutting it off. The movie was nothing but lies and tried to make Artimus Pyle as a superhero. Since the movie I have lost all respect for Artimus Pyle.
Same
Ronnie wasn't all that fond of Artemus and Gene knew that and Lacy didn't care for him either.
Same. Are the really bad stories about him true?
Pyle played himself up in movie as a bigger hero in South than Stonewall Jackson in 1862. Lol still laughing at Pyle after watching movie for free. B.S. PYLE should be on his us mail box at his home.
@@justnana13-klj40 Yes research him yourself. There shocking legal documents he try keep hidden but they public record to this day lifetime must be reg anywhere he go. Pleaded no contest in court.
How can you not love this gentle man. It’s fact that no one knew Ronnie better than Gene; friends since childhood growing up together.
As we approach the 45th anniversary of the tragedy, Gene still puts himself out there to keep the memories of Ronnie and the band alive. It’s more than evident in this and other videos, how much grief he continues to carry and the pain that resurfaces when he goes into details.
I had the pleasure of meeting Gene and getting him to personally sign my copy of “I’ll Never Forget You” at Charlie Daniels Volunteer Jam in Nashville ‘87 for the Tribute Tour debut show.
He’s as down to earth and true as you can find.
God bless you Gene for your loyalty and continuing to share your stories. There’s no doubt that Ronnie was proud and privileged to call you friend.
Gene is good people, his story never changes.
I believe him more Ben the movie
Opps the movie
@Vic Marrotti of course I believe him
Every video or interview I've ever watched of Gene Odum he has never said anything different. Every time he tells the story it's always the same. Gene is a good and honest man.
@@josearriola3087 wait i thought he was in the hospital at the time of the crash
another great interview with Gene,...thanx for sharing,....Movies almost always cause confusion,...because a lot of folks think if they see it in a movie,.its true,..and it rarely is.
I love these, very informative and interesting to hear about Genes life and times with the band!
Thank you for signing your book for me years ago! You’re a class act, Gene! Thank you for sharing these stories of the people and music so many of us still remember and hold dear!
That concert at Hollywood Florida Sporatorium on Oct 15,1977 was Great. Thay were at the top of there game.
These videos are great, & so valuable; Thank you! 💜 Feel I can trust Gene's accounts; seems a level-headed, honest person; refreshing, we all want truth not fiction. *If only RVZ hadn't undone that seat-belt! Another on the list of 'what ifs', but past is past. RIP, RIG. x
Soon all we will have are videos as guys like Gene are slowly fading.
this woman interviewing him seems a little clueless.
She asked if they had parties with naked girls there. What an idiot. Also Gene explains if Ronnie's belt was buckled he quite possibly could be alive, she then says "maybe its for the best".
@@RYANDEOROCK she said that after gene said “Ronnie died not knowing that the plane was crashing” she said maybe that’s for the best, meaning he didn’t have to panic like everyone else
Poor girl trying her best but very hard understand her by a Appalachian Mountain guy. Hope she got GPS in our area. She get lost we never could understand her hardly no matter how hard we try.
She did a great job I thought.
@@RYANDEOROCK well in her defense, the questions seem to be based on the falsities if the movie. It’s not her fault that Hollywood sucks
Mr gene could you speak more about Steve. I've read he was a super relaxed guy and re-energized the band with his playing.
Ya he seemed like the perfect catalyst needed to propel them to that next incredible level of pure beautiful rockn roll creativity, energy & wicked licks…
No matter what LYNYARD SKYNYRD, will never be forgotten, fly on FREEBIRD!!!
*No way my friend, no way* !
Spelling it right helps
I'm glad this popped up on my screen. I seen Street Survivor and thought it was true. I'm glad this is on here it's nice to actually hear the TRUTH! This guy seems genuine and sincere. Thanks for putting this on here and I am glad I found this. R.I.P TO RONNIE, CASSIE AND STEVE the others.
Thank you for reliving a most tragic day and flight.
I, by chance was just talking with a guy while working at a doctors in Nashville. He told me he was Frank Howard and he survived the crash. What a story. Afterward I looked it up doubting it was true. And it was. Same guy. He is still in pain and will never be right. This was in 2018. Really nice fellow.
Yeah, people underestimate that part. In fires in particular, you'll be in daily pain until death.
His name was Mark Howard, not Frank, correct?
@@rrrttt1112 yea...Frank Howard is a hall of fame baseball player.
One thing about this guy, His story never changes, So you know its true.
This is a psiop just like all other major events any and all famous entertainment people are gender swapped FTM and MTF you do not become famous in this world if you're not inverted gender swapped
With the exception of Billy Powell, no one else changed their story either. Gene's whole weird hang up with Artimus Pyle is very off putting. Other survivors have recounted Artimus actively preparing them for the crash. It's almost like Gene doesn't think anyone else is around to fact check him.
Gosh this was great! I've been fan since i was a kid and I've always followed up on clips & documentaries. Gene you're so personable and genuine- thank you so much for sharing these much appriciated moments/ memories🎶💝
Great video hope to see more
The one man that the band couldn't afford to lose was Ronnie.
Thank you for the truth Gene! So sad. This crash could have been avoided. Such a shame!
When I first got into the Skynyrd history and the plane crash I thought that Gene was more like a hanger on around the band.
Now some years later and after seeing and hearing so much from him and a few other interviews; I realize how much Gene really loved Ronnie and the whole band in a way that he would have done anything for them to help them to be more sane and responsible people.
I think if Gene could go back in time he would selflessly trade places with Ronnie in that plane crash so that we would have Ronnie with us longer than we did.
Gene is a Good dude in my opinion and I was Wrong to think that he was just looking to hang around Ronnie for some type of fame.
Sorry Gene; I judged you wrongly and please accept my apology for doing so.
Gene Odom and Ronnie Van Zant were best friends from childhood and Gene Odom was brought on board to try to keep the band clean on that last tour. I would take Gene's word about the situation over anybody else's. There's also a very good interview with the sound man who was on the plane to and it really lays out what happened during the crash
I think he still is. Of course he loved Ronnie, and of course he would do anything for him but same with a room of 30 women. He was hired because he was reliable in a bar fight. That doesn't mean ya'll best friends. I go to the bar with very specific people for the sole purpose of fighting but would never invite those people to my house because they are not my "best" friends. It's became very obvious in another video where he takes interviewers to the grave sites and doesn't even know what a coil of guitar strings were. Anyone who was close to a guitar band like that would recognize guitar strings. He thought they were "bracelets in a plastic wrapper". He is just riding the legacy of that band. It's not like he's some fantastic kind of dude that's done for the world, he was hired to do a job because he's a scrapper. Plain and simple.
@@TempoDrift1480 You're an idiot. I've played guitar for 60 years and sometimes I see guitar strings in packs I can't be sure what's in them. How the hell do you know what he was hired for???????
@@stevemason5173 yep, that dude is FK'd. Riding the legacy :) He must mean the band touring around calling themselves Skynyrd lol.
@@TempoDrift1480 You go to bars specifically to get into fights? I think you've taken a few too many to the noggin Wizzle.
Dear Gene. I saw Ronnie & Skynyrd two nights in a row with front row seating at the Grand Strand Music Festival at Myrtle Beach SC in 1975 with 38 Special. I was stationed at Myrtle Beach AFB while it was still open and saw the itinerary posted in the BX. I know you've heard this from many Skynyrd fans, how Ronnie's music influenced & helped many for various reasons. I was a budding bass player, and the Southern Rock genre was my music of choice. So, that's what I cut my bass chops on. I have one question for you if you have the time and if it's permissible to answer, if not, I do understand. You spoke once, concerning Artimus Pyle, how Ronnie was contemplating to fire him and hire Steve Gaine's brother to take over the drum chair. Did Artimus do something really bad to P O Ronnie? The only reason I ask is a Artimus only speaks highly of Ronnie, always heaps praises about him. Again, I understand if you can't answer that question due to good form, ect. There'll never be another Lynyrd Skynyrd band in my opinion. It ended when the plane crashed. Thank you Gene for all you do.
Really? I missed this part or haven't seen it yet, the part about RVZ thinking of firing Artemus. And, I've noticed, Artemus only has the highest praise for Ronnie. You're right about that. (Ya Got that right!) I know Gary and Artemus, had some kind of argument, and they got rid of Artemus; and in my opinion, that was a big mistake for LS Tribute band to make. The more original members you have, the more legit you become; but, Skynyrd was over when they lost RVZ. Side thought, I have heard, the plane sat on the tarmac running for 45 minutes waiting for Artemus, and this very well could've been way the plane ran out of gas.
Skynyrd was my 1st rock concert 10/22/76 at The Music Hall,Boston,MA. I was 13yrs old and totally blown away by their musicianship. Tuesday’s Gone was my favorite song back then. The fateful crash (10/20/77) was almost ‘exactly’ 1yr after I saw them.
R.I.P.
I went to Lee, worked at the Holiday Inn where I met Dave Evans who was a engineer on GMBMB. Got to tour the studio on Riverside Avenue across from the YMCA. Artimus was very nice to me. Wish they could reconcile, too old and too many years have passed not to. RVZ was a prolific songwriter but the guitar work of AC and GR got them started imo. RIP.
The best clear description of the plane crash i've heard yet. There are so many different tales. This sounds correct.
Get on the plan or your fired?? I guess id been fired.
Love to set and spend some time with gene..
Poor Cassie Gains. She had bought a commercial ticket, but got in that plane anyway; but, when you think the pilots are risking their lives, too while saying, "Get on. It's fine." You get on.
Gene, is it true that after the birth of his second daughter, Ronnie would like to retire?
From everything that I have read about the band, and it's been a lot, or watched there are a few undeniable facts: one is that RVZ and Gene were very close from boyhood up until Ronnie died. The other is that Gene was brought on that tour to try and keep the guys clean and sober, like he talked about taking all of the whiskey bottles from the band during their last performance. Ronnie wanted him to do that stuff. Keep the dealers away, keep the band, including Ronnie, straight etc. I don't think that Artimus or Steve Gaines had substance or alcohol issues, but Ronnie with his drinking, Allan, Gary, and Leon with their drugs and drinking, and Billy with his drinking, were all total abusers. I absolutely take Gene's versions of what happened at different times over Gary's or Billy's or Artimus', that's for sure. I certainly wouldnt dispute anything Mr. Odom has said
when are these video interviews going to continue?
Seen them in 1973 in Dayton Ohio . At age 15 . Greatest concert . Gene Thank you for speaking as hard as it may be . Like to meet you one day
Not taking anyone’s side but when people go through tragic events memories are individualized. For example I’ve seen an interview with Pyle where he actually says some of the movie was fictionalized for “Hollywood”. Pyle had the interaction with Ronnie where he got the “smile” discussed when Ronnie left the card table to lay down. The movie does it differently. Every person on board that plane had a different story. It’s really a shame that they’ve lost good friendships by not understanding how people in tragedies and shock can’t recall events correctly. So many of the band members have not spoken for years when each person’s story really may be true to them. It’s called “false memories”. It’s actually quite common for people involved in such things to experience false memories. Pyle may have needed that memory to deal with it. It doesn’t mean any of them are lying.
I will never stop "what if-ing"....one of the saddest days of my life...love me some Skynyrd..
It would be nice if the interviewer wasn't always on her phone ,the gentleman is trying to speak and tell a story and she's sitting there looking at her phone.
Who is the young lady doing the interview?
Gene Rodman is the MAN.
In the movie the DEA mistake Artimus' ginseng for narcotics, that was the only reference to drugs being found. And I'd love to see Gene and Artimus rehash the events of the plane crash in front of each other. Invite him on, Gene......
Genes is the only person whose story has never changed since it happened. Artimus story has evolved over time usually making himself look like a hero. When in reality he was hiding for 2 hours in the swamp.
If she knows that Gene dont want to talk about the movie, then why did she constantly ask him questions about the movie? He said, I haven't seen it, and I won't see it, Gene you are 1 hell of a Human being, God bless you
Thanks for all you do, Gene!
Thank you, Gene, for sharing this, I remember when my mom was extremely upset when the plane went down. I was just 7 but I grew up listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd and I still do. I'm from Georgia and I remember when Lynyrd Skynyrd had an album picture taken in Jonesboro ga, not sure of the year. I'm so very sorry for this tragedy. I love Lynyrd Skynyrd. Gene, God bless you always. Rip Ronnie, Cassie, Steve and Dean.
I love this woman's accent. Excellent interview of a very tragic day. I was in college at the time.
She’s gorgeous, and I love her accent!
WTH? The accent is horrific. Find something else to do. Did Gene have to drive all the way to b f Egypt for this?
@@stevelewis1982 Racist much?
Not liking an accent doesnt make one a racist.. Not sure where you got that idea..I hate new Jersey accents personally, does that make me racist against people from Jersey? Lol come on chief.
Also his reference about egypt is not racist as its a place not a person.
One great guy whom has relived the plane crash for Steve and Cassies home town more than once and is always so gracious and emotional - we love him in Miami Oklahoma- God grant you peace and love Gene💙✌
thank you Gene for telling the truth.
Artemis is a great drummer. But this is his version. Not sure how accurate but they should do a movie on each survivor's recollection...
I am a huge fan of this band. And I think that movie was absolute crap!!!
It was. Just awful.
Everyone has different memories, that along with the passage of time, in fighting, law suits and money are perfect ingredients for major discrepancies in any story. Their point of view isn’t going to change, especially if it makes them look bad. I watched the movie yesterday and it was enjoyable. I did keep in mind that it was told by Artemis and he has very different views from some of the others. What is true is that they made awesome music. Thank God more people were not killed. I graduated from high school in 1977. My children and grandchildren listen to and are fans of the band. They made great music together and the music lives on. No finer tribute than that!
Artimus no Artemis (it's a different story :D). But agree with the rest of your post. Keeping in my mind words of one history researcher: The worst source to restore any past event is to listen the memories of the participants - they are always distorted more than you can imagine...
Love your reply lovely Rita...
I agree 100% the music is most important...keep on rockin sister
Gene, I am investigating the causes of the crash in depth and feel I am close to finding the truth- from a strictly mechanical perspective. I am 4th generation engine mechanic and have been collecting aircraft manuals all my life. There are over 600,000 pages in my collection. Although not having worked on or flew the Convair CV series I am very familiar with the engines and propellers on them. The last thing I'd want to do is pry into your life about the crash for obvious reasons. However, It would be beneficial to ask some very specific questions beginning with the first sign of trouble on the final flight. I have the crash report and have listened to many interviews of witnesses and survivors. There are of number of things that don't jibe. If you have any interest please reply and I'll give you my email. After listing to your series it is clear you were a great and loyal friend to Ronnie and his wife. Much respect, brother and wishing you the best!
Gene said on the flight to Greenville the right engine had issues, blowing flame out the exhaust and running rough. When he approached the pilots the day of the final flight they were working that engine and said they were dealing with a magneto, but that carburetor needed work, and that the Transport company was sending a mechanic to Baton Rouge. Gene said he told them they had an extra day before they had to leave for Baton Rouge, so why not fix it there? They refused. From what I gathered it was a combination of an over rich running engine using too much fuel, inoperative gas guages and a failure to measure the fuel level before taking off.
Thanks to the very good interviewer and to you Gene, God bless you. I didn't know
Ronnie but I loved his vocal talents behind the mike as well as in the studio.
Gene from what I have heard about Ronnie, there is nothing you could have done differently. He called his own shots. It was fate. I miss Ronnie and Steve and Cassie and Dean but am very glad that you made it through to tell us fans the truth. You mentioned seeing All of them but I was wondering if you noticed Cassie or was she further back out of your view? Thanks Gene love you buddy Good bless you. Freebird!!!
Many of the actual band members despised Odom and have said that his stories constantly conflict with reality over the years. After the crash he always claimed that he and Ronnie were the best of friends, but Ronnie never said that. They knew eachother growing up. Odom was one of those guys who latched himself onto Ronnie's coattails trying to be part of the band, even though he didn't have a musical bone in his body, and has made a living off riding the legacy and always making sure to be front and center ever since the tragedy. He was hired and credited as "Security" and that's about the full extent of his involvement as a band member. Throughout all the different documentaries and interviews out there over the years, his story changes all the time. Gary and Ronnie were the ones who were best friends from the beginning and kind of took in Allen like their little brother, and I believe what they say 100% over anything Gene Odom has to say. Even as an elderly old man Gene Odom is still trying to bask in the spotlight of the crash and will say whatever he needs to say to try to remain relevant. Watch Gary's interviews instead of Odom's...
Great interview!! I didnt know Transylvania was Skynyrd fans
I went to boot camp in the Marines with Thomas Delmer Pyle, he was an honor Marine and our platoon guide. I can't believe he would make up a bunch of lies about the crash. Most of the lies I have heard were from Ronnies widow and Gary Rossington who dislike Artimus so much because he left the band in 1992 because they were still doing heavy drugs.
Artimus Thomas seems to be honorable and he was a marine which means he served his country and thats honorable , it seems us humans are really a bunch of nit pickers trying to find dirt on others , I'm dealing with an as hole brother myself, Artimus did say everyone had a different story and I believe him .
@@ljbull33 everyone has their perspective on their experiences, I learned in Vietnam that everyone sees the world through their own eyes and interprets it through their mind as it has learned. Some people you can't get through new ideas or a different perspective and it's better to leave them believing their own ignorant view.
Interesting. I wouldn't know either way.
Wow I’ve Never Heard That Story Before
@@DennisEHayes I agree. Gene is basing his experience and limited knowledge as the ultimate truth of everyone else's experience. Let alone, in this video, he contradicted his own statements. He says there were no drugs but then changed that story. He says Artimus went to the cockpit twice and then at 25:33 min mark, he says Artimus went to the cockpit only 1 time. These are very significant discrepancies. He speaks very dismissive of somone else's experience that was actually there as if only his version of the story is the only story that is accurate or has any validity.
And they don't play the best of Skynyrd on the radio. The whole album give me back my bullets was awesome. All I can do is write about it, cry for the bad man, Mississippi kid, upon many upon many of great other ones that can be searched !!!
Mississipi Kid is from their debut album.
It was tragic for me to learn, that Ronnie referred to himself, as the Mississippi Kid, not knowing why. Again, I respect Gene alot; but, wish he and Gary, and some of the other survivor's, would've been a part of this movie. Because they chose not to, we have one perspective of one man for this movie. Don't knock Artemis, please. But, an interesting thing, Gene said, was that the plane, sat running on the tarmac for 45 minutes, waiting for Artemis. Could've been a big reason, the plane ran out of gas. Not blaming, just saying.
@@lolitagrant6751 sounds about right! Artimus seems to act like he’s not about the money yet nobody that was affiliated with Skynyrd wanted anything to do with his project. I think that speaks to the authenticity of the movie!
Coming Home is a great song
Yes, it's sad all the way around, A band that ended way too soon, and a plane crash that took lives too soon, we will never know what they would have become. So now they are free birds and their music will live on in our heart and souls and will never die. So honor them by playing their music, keeping it alive and what memories you do have in your heart and soul. And if you want the truth get it from the horse's mouth. Like Gene Odom, Band Members, and the Rescuers that were there that night.
Gene I’d love to have your opinion on a few things an hear some stuff about the band
Sounds like Gene was blaming Artemis cuz they had to wait on him at the airport and if they didn't have to wait they may not have ran out of fuel. The plane was running the whole time that they were waiting, & the engine was running rich causing it to use more fuel. A.pyle gets emotional when he talks about it, so he might blame himself also. If I thought it was his fault the plane ran out of fuel, I would be unhappy with him too.
The main engines weren't running. It was the APU in the rear of the plane that ran out of fuel. It's been told that the planes fuel gauges were inoperative and the fuel levels were checked with a stick; no one recalled that having been done that day.
Thanks for the truth & the stories..
Hello Gene, I have a question about Skynyrds second to last show at the Lakeland Civic Center on October 18th 1977. I was at that show and had seats behind the stage. At some point during the show I recall seeing Artimus kick over his drum kit in the middle of a song and yelling at who I thought might have been Gary Rossington. I'm not really sure if it was Gary or not because it was so long ago. I have wondered all these years about what had happened on stage that night. I remember seeing the stage crew scrambling to get his drum kit back together. If you or anyone else remember what happened that night you would be answering a 40 year old question that I still hold to this day. Thanks Gene, I enjoyed your post. Long Live Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Have you ever thought of asking Artimus Pyle himself since it was his experience and not Gene's experience? 😁 Artimus Plye is still alive and kicking 🥁🎶btw 🤔
@@learntoswim9291 If I knew how to get in touch with him, I would. Celebrities are usually very guarded when it comes their privacy. Do you know a way to contact him?
@@FRANKBURNSONE he and his band have an active page on Facebook and hopefully you can contact him there. Good luck ✌💕🙂
The Artimus Pyle band* 👍👍🙂
@@learntoswim9291 Thanks, I will give it a try.
He is wrong about Ronnie's cause of death, Gene says he was asphyxiated , but the official cause of death is Blunt force trauma, which is consistent with Artemus Pyle's version.
Wrong. Judy Van Zandt actually provided a copy of the coroner's report on her husband Ronnie which stated although Ronnie did have a contusion to his head, his actual cause of death was asphyxiation from being caught under the rubble of the crash too long before he was found. Artimus is a liar. They proved he lied about being shot that day too.
@@minigirl6379 exactly
I've heard several different stories from different members of the band, most of them have changed their story for some reason, the only ones that always remain the same are this guy n Artemis Pyle, even though they may differ they never change, from all that trauma they're bound to remember things differently, but in my opinion the 2 who never changed their stories are telling the truth to the best of their recollections
How dumb not to check the fuel knowing you had it running while waiting on Artimus
Awesome Story Gene can you tell me how did Ronnie get that U S Flight bomber coat
Nice piece of history behind it.👍😎🎵
it was given to him by one of the sailors out in Marietta near the warehouses.
God bless Gene Odom. You want that man as a friend. He will always have your back.
I believe every word Gene is true. I personally know most of the Odom family because they all my cousins. My Aunt Annie Mae raised honest children. I didn't get to know Gene because he was already traveling with Ronnie and the band. I admire him for his life long friendship with Ronnie and keeping Gary from the hostile takeover.
Were ronnie and jimmy van zant close?
We'll talk about it in the next video :)
@@hangingoutwithgeneodom3699 Why was JoJo fired?
Cousins
@@leonardduke6791 he answered in his new video i knew they we're cousins i just knew jimmy van zant wasn't his real name gene explained.
Thank you Gene. I was a huge Skynyrd fan ever since I was 10yrs old. Crying listening to this 1st hand account. Hugs to you.
Gene always stays consistent in his story even when he tells about the fight he wouldn't let his dead fishing buddy (Ronnie) money be stolen from by Gary Rossington and Gene testified in court.
Thank you Brother Gene. God bless you
This was so interesting! I feel like out of all the videos I've seen on this subject even from others who were there, that Gene is the one person who is actually telling the real story. I watched that stupid Street Survivors the other night and thought it was ridiculous. They make it like Artimus single handily saved all the survivors himself with super human strength. (I love Gene's description of it as "his own psychotic fairy tale" LOL!) I didn't realize Jo Jo had been fired, can Gene elaborate on that at all? I've seen videos that she has done and she said something along the lines of Ronnie saying he wanted her back, that he "needed her" whatever that means! Anyway, please keep the videos coming Gene, you sound like one of the only rational people who know the story! Also is it true that Judy was not kind to Tammy?
Jo Jo was having an affair with Allen Collins and he was married..RVZ fired her as she needed to get her shit together.
Gene, do you have any comments on Craig Reed? thanks, Cousin Figel
I met gene when I went to pay my respects at Ronnie's grave site 2015 was a spiritual experience ✌
"There were no drugs on that plane." "There maybe were some prescription drugs on that plane." "There may have been a little marihuana on that plane."
That should say a lot about trusting his account of what happened that tragic day.
Why would they leave the plane running so long while waiting for them? Why not start the plane when they all arrived?
They were running the APU (Airplane Power Unit) thats a small engine in the back of the plane. They weren't running the main engines.
Very good interview.
Gene, I live in Savannah Georgia and have a question. Do you remember if the aircraft made an unscheduled stop in Savannah, Georgia enroute to Greenville?? My brother worked at Savannah Air Service and may have refueled the plane. If it did not stop and went straight to Greenville, please let me know. It may have been another aircraft. Thank you, Bob Newell.
I thank gene for giving us answers and stories about the greatest band ever