Ah and there it is....... No positive comment is ever complete without someone stopping by to leave some kinda negativity. Ed never claimed to be a singer but at least he tried to help out with Leon and do backup vocals until they got the girls and the whole band was drunker than shit probably every time they hit the stage so what does Ed being stoned have to do with anything? They were ALL stoned I'm sure and everyone else in the band were alcoholics !
I am not white, Not from the South, but this song some how talks to me. Great Song, I think this is a song for all true Americans. A good song stands the test of time. I play it often today.
I'm no American brother but this was one hell of a band, we don't have this anymore,we still have some amazing musicians but the early 60s to end of 70s were for me or maybe 18 - 19 century with those gods then ❤️🔥🇲🇰
Damn stright I seen them in Birmingham Alabama around five months before the crash I'm very glad I drove a hundred and eighty miles that day, Best concert I have ever been to and I have been to a bunch...they sound amazing live
jsmyers24151 I don't know - it's all relative. Ed was/is a great songwriter and player. Ronnie was the "face" & (more or less) the persona of the band, due to the lyrical content. So, as far as Ronnie is concerned, him behaving himself (which he DID do before the last tour) was just the unique makeup of the band and part of the attraction to them by the fans - it's "FREE" in the 'Freebird' etc.. Ronnie was his own man, so to speak. Even Al Kooper will tell you that. I will say that the second "evolution" of Lynyrd Skynyrd after Ed King left was just as great - a little different, but still great. Steve Gaines breathed new life into that band - that was why Ronnie hired him, not just because Cassie recommended him bc he was her brother. I'm sure Ronnie was never the type to just say "yes" to such things based one someone's recommendation - he had to "know" it for himself. Anyways,....just my $.002
Wrap your head around the four top notch guitarists Skynyrd had. Four all equally incredible in their own style. Can’t think of any other band in rock history that could touch that.
This was three here Allen Collins Gary rossington and Ed King who wrote The Rift for Sweet home Alabama the solo. When Ed left Steve Gaines joined who was incredible but they always had three lead guitarist not four as you say, 3 was plenty.
These older clips with Ed are priceless gem's, he added something very special to this band and they were never the the same without him. Ed said there was never an ego problem between he Gary and Allen, they all wanted what was best for the music and they all shined when it was time. He said if Gary hadn't been playing the parts he was playing that day when he got to practice this song wouldn't have happened. Gary's chords and the way he was playing them inspired Ed to start bouncing off them with his signature riff to one of thee greatest southern rock songs in history. Ed King, Gary Rossington, and Allen Collins were an inspiration to each other, they fed off each other and brought out the best of each other, they complimented each other, they each had their own voice and power, the 3 of them were a recipe for magic together and together they gave us some of the finest southern rock music there ever was or will be again!!
I adored Ed King. Saw a Strawberry Alarm Clock video yesterday...very cool. The talent on this stage is phenomenal. Absolutely heartbreaking that they are all gone now.
Ed King is one of the best guitarist ever. If you don't believe me, first try to copy what he does here. It is possible, after breaking a finger or two. Then try to write the song and come up with the licks and the solo. A brilliant musician. I don't thing he gets credits for his skill as a guitarist and a songwriter. But, when he dies, he will cover the whole front page on every guitar magazine in the world. Wanna bet?
Ed was part of Strawberry Alarm Clock and wrote the bridge & solo for Incense & Peppermints, but never got song writing credit and has never made a dime from the copyright to this day. Thankfully he hit it big with Sweet Home.
I Love watching MR. Allen Collins....His life wound up so Brutal just unforgiving his smile could light up a room Rest in Peace Allen....an the rest of The Band...now you got Gary up there to play those ripping solo's...Allen was the Real deal...
I just loved once again crossing from GA today into "SWEET HOME ALABAMA " on I -20! Many,many thanks owed to Mr Ronnie VanZant and Lynyrd Skynyrd for that!!!!❤
These where the days. Youngbloods take note this is a real southern rock band. Best in the land. They have rode coast to coast with me since 1975. Much respect
Allen Collins was one tall dude. God bless one of the best southern rocks bands ever that brought so much love and joy to everyone. RIP to all those who served in this mighty awesome band.
@@Kurtis11266 He was actually saying slow down because ed drug the solo out longer than it actually was. Dipshit. That's Coming from a guitar player and singer. Not some Moron on TH-cam. That solo is Different and Longer in this Video. Genius
@@Dr.Music77 I just listened to your alabama shorts and you can't even play it right let alone sing it right, you got no idea what you're talking about. He was saying slow down because he went over tempo, don't be so egotistical.
@@Kurtis11266 Me egotistical? Haha your the one that just Had To "Correct" me on Something? Even though you're wrong. So you take personal shots 😂 Besides, I wasnt even the One playing Guitar on that one. So Nice try Jackass. Im sure you're a professional Musician And Voice coach too right?
Bob Burns was the Charlie Watts of Southern Rock! Bobs drum work was perfect for the songs. He was a clock!! Too many drummers I’ve played with over the years over play this song. Artie also has a great version, but Bob just makes this song with that tempo. Classic…..Bob is definitely the most forgotten foundation of this band. He was such a genuine fellow.
You are right. I went back and listened closely bc I’m a songwriter, not much of a live performer, and I can def hear the strong steady beat in just right time.
Loved this band for 40 years now and they never, ever get old. Wow, what talent. I wish I appreciated them then as I do now. Not sure what good it would have done, but I really miss that talent.
“I wish I appreciated them then as I do now”. I’ve been saying the same thing the last few years.. My friends and are were too busy going to Allman Bros. Concerts. We missed out on Skynyrd's Asbury Park, NJ Convention Hall appearance July 13th 1977. What I wouldn’t give to go back in time and see that show live.
Yeah man well that's been Lynyrd Skynyrd now another eight years so that's your 48 years on mine I hope you're out there that you can respond to this and still have the same name party ability to see it it does nothing but get better yeah? Hit me back man. PLAY FREEBIRD MAN
we were young and easily distracted . Time goes by and the good stuff seems to hold up and it's highlighted by the perspective only time can bring . I loved them as a kid but I never knew how good they really were till I began to struggle with the guitar and song writing .I want to go back and do it all over but I cant go back I know . Eddie Mahoney
Ed King helped to make the album "NUTHIN FANCY" (1975), the BEST Skynyrd album of all time! Ed King, along with Alan Collins and Gary Rossington, with their key guitar solos, really was INSTRUMENTAL In making It the great album that It Is. Unfortunately though, this album is extremely UNDERRATED!!! Born sane In a Insane world 😮....
Best live version I have found on the internet. Ed King was still in the band, and they do not play it too fast as in some other versions I have seen. That driving, steady tempo is one of the things that make this song great. I am glad I got to see them in 1975 just a few months before Ed left the band.
You guys are very lucky to have had that experience, I would have loved to see them when Ed was still in the band. Their first 3 albums with Ed are the most important to me and I feel those albums to capture the true essence of Lynyrd Skynyrd. They were never the same again without him.
@@aschule5684 I agree that Ed had a unique style that was big part of their early sound. One regret that I do have, however, is not going to see them in Greenville, SC at their last show in 1977 before the plane crash. I grew up in the Greenville-Spartanburg area, and I used to see a lot of concerts at the Greenville Auditorium. My father worked in Greenville. My buddies asked me to go with them to the show that night, but I think I had to work and did not make it. I should have skipped work. It took my breath away the next day when I heard about the plane crash knowing they had just taken off from our hometown airport. I was 18 then. I cannot believe it has been almost 45 years.
The heavy dude is Ed King, the original picker of this song, took me a while to figure out he was the writer, no other band member can play this song right except Ed...Go Ed !
Not all together true. Gary came up with the first three cords, then Ed arranged the rest. But, Ronnie, Ed and Gary wrote the lyrics jointly. By the way: Ed was born in Glendale, California; not sweet home Alabama, so it stands to reason he got a little help from a couple southern boys.
Yes Scott, your correct "Not altogether true", but the strong picking pattern and the lead guitars that were Eds is what really characterized the feel of the song (IMO).. It’s sort of a back beat, mixed with triplets. None of the other players could do this. Must have been that "LA technique" he learned from GIT :)
Yes, and it's too bad he decided to leave. For years, I thought he was rhythm only; come to find out he's one of the best lead guitarists in history. He contributed sooo much for LS. I just wish he'd have formed is own group, but he couldn't stand the music business, understandably.
It amazes me how they had so many people on guitars and made it sound so fantastic. Talk about teamwork to a goal. What a unique bunch of people to pull this off. I wish I had found the importance of their music earlier in life. I listened to it.....just didn't feel it until recently.
Hugh Guidi yes you are correct on your points except as it really happened was Gary was playing a riff that till this day still plays during sweet home that Ed heard and Ed added that well know intro but without Gary's inspiration the sound may never have been written. Look I love skynyrd. They are my favorite band hands down. Each guy had there purpose that made them great. Love you guys
Saw them play at the Georgia Tech student center in the mid-70’s before a small crowd. They loaded their own equipment. Then almost overnight they were a hit sensation. Played in front of The Who in Atlanta and were off to the races.
Billy Powell, Paul Griffin, Ray Charles, Larry Knechtel, Billy Preston, Leon Russell, Nicky Hopkins, Ray Manzarek, Bob Mayo, Keith Emerson, Dr John, Rick Wakeman, Tony Banks, Jordan Rudess - who did I miss? (only the last three are still alive as of 2023)
I missed plenty: Elton John for starters, also Bruce Hornsby (although he's on the fringes of Jazz, so maybe not quite the target demographic for this list). I was thinking Rod Argent is right up there on talent and creativity but he didn't play a lot of piano (when he did, it was worth listening). I don't know how I forgot Chuck Leavell, though. No doubt there's heaps more.
Ed was so under-rated, Allen Collins was incredible too. As nice and simple sounding as the leads are in SHA , they are anything but simple, they are a great joy to be able to play as Ed played them, you will find .02 out of a hundred players actually play the solos as Ed did in that song, anyone can play over it, but it is extremely rare to find someone that understands the passing tone structure and weaving-finesse that he had with it. The soloing by Allen Collins in Freebird is also amazing, simple for the most part, but amazing, he brought in some groundbreaking riffage in that song.
Ed King was one of the greatest. Ed told the story of how Ronnie walked over to him and whispered the lyrics and he listened and then hit that opening lick and the rest was rock and roll history.
Actually, that was 'Saturday Night Special' that he whispered in Ed's ear. "Two feets they come a-creepin', like a black cat do." Ed said he was blown away by that line.
Jimi Ray I researched it some more. I did find one interview where Ed King made the statement about that line and Ronnie whispering to him. It's not worth arguing about. I love all southern rock. Raised on it in the seventies. I just am wondering if you ever saw them live before the crash?
@@davidfloyd6962 Someone on the internet is wrong! I must correct them! LOL! It's all good. Yes. The only time I saw them was with Grinderswitch, Wet Willie and Marshall Tucker at Atlanta Stadium in 1973 just after they released 'Pronounced'. The classic lineup, IMHO. I rushed out and bought the album the next day.
its jus crazy how MANY talented guitar players ronnie had at his disposal , wish i had that lol Rest in Peace-Ed King RIP Mr King very talented guitarist and songwriter
I was a fan of Ed King back In the days of his 1st band Strawberry alarm clock, writing their 2 biggest hits! What a talent and he really jumpstarted Skynyrd! RIP Ed
Yep. Mr. Ed King. When you hear those amazing licks on Sweet Home Alabama after Ronnie says "Here I come.." ...youre hearing Mr. Ed King. A truly great picker amongst pickers.
Seen them at Sedalia, Missouri in 1974 they kicked some ass making all 650,000 people sing along. It was a great afternoon, one that I'll never forget. Turn it up!
I can’t remember that many people there at the concert … But it was packed with people four sure … I remember the mud Marathon there as well at the fair 1974 Rock on 🎼🎸🎸🎸
I was 7 years old when this was sung. I remember the first time hearing it on the radio. Being from southeast Alabama I realized how awesome we are. Only a small overlooked and stereotyped people. I was so proud and still to this day 50 years later. Very proud to be an American. God bless us and our allies!
Ed King was a guitar Master! The others guys were great too, but here in this song, Ed shines as no one else ever could have. (My opinion) Rossington had the D, C, G progression but Ed turned it into a masterpiece with his riffs and solos. I don't think he was allowed to play like this in his Strawberry Alarm Clock days, but in Skynyrd, Ed was allowed to show what he could do and we are all better off for it.
As a guitar player, I have analyzed Ed's technique through headphones for hours and this is one recording captures his technique beautifully. You can actually hear the finesse of his fingering so technically perfect that includes a feeling that simply cant be copied. That relatively simple intro he plays is impossible to get it to sound the way he makes it sound. Ive heard it played quite possibly more than any song covered in any genre and no one can make it sound just like Ed. Next time you see some band at your local pub attempt this song, listen close and you will hear what im talking about!! Ed King, You are up there with all the greats! And that little diddy you created, that you probably never gave much thought , will continue to frustrate guitarists till the end of time!!!
My goodness, Collins and Rossington were both juveniles when they hit it big, that's for sure! I think they were both 18 when the deal with MCA was signed. Both sooo young, yet so very good at their craft!
Yes I was always amazed that these two totally uneducated, economically very poor individuals right off the street were able to achieve such excellence. And drop-dead consistency.
Great strat tone. Great, inventive licks and solos. He's always had the most identifiable playing out of the guitarists in the band. Also his playing is a bit more advanced than Gary or Allen's imo.
@@SuperStrik9 It's amazing how much of a difference there is when Ed King is playing Sweet Home Alabama. The fact that even I, who am not even a guitar aficionado, can tell means that he must have *really* been up among the gods, because all the Skynyrd guitarists were top notch!
I'm definitely going to have to listen to Sweet home Alabama with Ed King playing because I just listened to it for the first time the version I have always heard is our only fantastic also.
Thank u Ed 4 sharing your greatness an launching the boys in rite direction witch they we're heading that way already but now thanks 2 u with the rite sound n tone Allen league of his own best picker ever
RIP...Ed King. (Sept.14, 1949 - Aug.22, 2018) Guitarist for the psychedelic rock band Strawberry Alarm Clock . Guitarist and bassist for the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd from 1972 to 1975 and again from 1987 to 1996...
Nobody and I mean nobody could play this song like Ed King Steve was a great addition after Ed and one of the most gifted guitarists of all time but he didn’t do this particular song justice Ed was just something else 🙏
Love to watch Ed play the opening lick live here! He does the musician's 'funky neck thing', which makes me appreciate the 'funkiness' of the lick even more! RIP!
Ed King was a great guitarist and he was a real easy going & laid back kinda guy, so he couldn't really relate or tolerate all the fighting & drunken rowdiness. I think he was a bit intimidated by Ronnie to because all the stories and his reputation of being quick to fight and good at it were all true and earned honestly. His dad was a trained prize fighter, and made sure his sons knew how to throw them Duke's! Ed packed up and left the tour one night after a show. Ultimately quitting the band for good, after Ronnie came into their hotel, angry over Ed's performance and commented that he wasnt even comparable to Gary or Allen as a guitarist, and couldn't play worth a damn. The addition of Steve Gaines was no mistake though! Anything can get monotonous if you do it long enough, so he brought a renewed enthusiasm to the band and that was just the streak of lightening they needed. Steve was a complete musician. He was a very accomplished guitarist, and could sing, write, and compose. Most don't realize that it's Steve and Ronnie both singing, but just alternating the verses between them on the song titled, "You got that right" that was on their latest 1977 album called Street Survivors. Released just 2-3 days prior to their plane crash. It also included the title track of "Ain't no good life" which he wrote and features just him singing it.
Ed was touring in 60's with the Strawberry Alarm Clock. By 1974 he had his fill of the road. Plus he wrote Sweet Home Alabama that's a royalties $ Bonanza!
![The Who - Baba O'Reily -- In [High Definition] HD! -1979 - The Kids Are Alright](/img/n.gif)
I never get tired of commenting what a phenomenal guitar player Ed King was.
AMEN!
Right there with you my friend ☮️
100% agree, but he was horrible singer and stoned most all performances.
Ah and there it is....... No positive comment is ever complete without someone stopping by to leave some kinda negativity. Ed never claimed to be a singer but at least he tried to help out with Leon and do backup vocals until they got the girls and the whole band was drunker than shit probably every time they hit the stage so what does Ed being stoned have to do with anything? They were ALL stoned I'm sure and everyone else in the band were alcoholics !
Damn. I never ever heard of him! Thank you!
I am not white, Not from the South, but this song some how talks to me. Great Song, I think this is a song for all true Americans. A good song stands the test of time. I play it often today.
I'm no American brother but this was one hell of a band, we don't have this anymore,we still have some amazing musicians but the early 60s to end of 70s were for me or maybe 18 - 19 century with those gods then ❤️🔥🇲🇰
Ed King playing a Stratocaster picks me up when I’m feeling blue
Best comment
Telecaster
@@waynewilliams5802 stratocaster
That made me smile.. thank you :)
@@waynewilliams5802it's a fender strat
R.I.P. Ed King
R. I. P.! Allen Collins. 😥🥺
Strawberry alarm. Clock. Thanks mr kink
r.i.p. Ronnie and Billy, too!
R.i.p van zant
And we lost Gary. There's a fantastic concert in Heaven.
Nothing like original Skynyrd. Love that band! RIP Ed King.
And Ed isnt an original member..
Grant Payne pre 77 member so close enough
Grant Payne not from the origin of the band but he’s on the first 3 albums and co wrote a lot of those songs he’s an original member
He wrote that song i heard!!!
Damn stright I seen them in Birmingham Alabama around five months before the crash I'm very glad I drove a hundred and eighty miles that day, Best concert I have ever been to and I have been to a bunch...they sound amazing live
Ed King has never got his due as one of the most inventive guitarists of Classic Rock era......that guy could write & play the hell outta that thing
+hazor777 They were not the same band without him. Truly missed his guitar work on later albums. If only Ronnie would have behaved himself.
jsmyers24151
I don't know - it's all relative.
Ed was/is a great songwriter and player.
Ronnie was the "face" & (more or less) the persona of the band, due to the lyrical content.
So, as far as Ronnie is concerned, him behaving himself (which he DID do before the last tour) was just the unique makeup of the band and part of the attraction to them by the fans - it's "FREE" in the 'Freebird' etc.. Ronnie was his own man, so to speak.
Even Al Kooper will tell you that.
I will say that the second "evolution" of Lynyrd Skynyrd after Ed King left was just as great - a little different, but still great.
Steve Gaines breathed new life into that band - that was why Ronnie hired him, not just because Cassie recommended him bc he was her brother.
I'm sure Ronnie was never the type to just say "yes" to such things based one someone's recommendation - he had to "know" it for himself.
Anyways,....just my $.002
I agree!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes,sir..it has to me, the best strat sounding, best sound lead there ever was..bar none!
How about how his strat looks like DAVID GILMOUR'S BLACK STRAT?
Nothing but love and respect here for Mr Ed King. Such an amazing player
I never imagined he was a member of strawberry alarm clock!
After watching the other live version, Steve Gaines couldnt hold a candle to Ed.
Wrap your head around the four top notch guitarists Skynyrd had. Four all equally incredible in their own style. Can’t think of any other band in rock history that could touch that.
Incredible
This was three here Allen Collins Gary rossington and Ed King who wrote The Rift for Sweet home Alabama the solo. When Ed left Steve Gaines joined who was incredible but they always had three lead guitarist not four as you say, 3 was plenty.
@@natevm7888 Steve Gaines is probably the most underrated. His solo in That Smell is incredible.
@machinayrequiem8596 absolutely!!!
@@natevm7888 I didn’t mean four at once.🙄
These older clips with Ed are priceless gem's, he added something very special to this band and they were never the the same without him.
Ed said there was never an ego problem between he Gary and Allen, they all wanted what was best for the music and they all shined when it was time. He said if Gary hadn't been playing the parts he was playing that day when he got to practice this song wouldn't have happened.
Gary's chords and the way he was playing them inspired Ed to start bouncing off them with his signature riff to one of thee greatest southern rock songs in history. Ed King, Gary Rossington, and Allen Collins were an inspiration to each other, they fed off each other and brought out the best of each other, they complimented each other, they each had their own voice and power, the 3 of them were a recipe for magic together and together they gave us some of the finest southern rock music there ever was or will be again!!
Amen!!! Absolutely true 💯🥰
I second that.
And "that's" for sure.
Amen!
R.I.P Ed King Genius and boy could you play that guitar......
I adored Ed King. Saw a Strawberry Alarm Clock video yesterday...very cool. The talent on this stage is phenomenal. Absolutely heartbreaking that they are all gone now.
I totally agree they are my favourite band of all time period
💔💔💔,but we'll always listen to&watch these legendary legends!
Ed King is one of the best guitarist ever. If you don't believe me, first try to copy what he does here. It is possible, after breaking a finger or two. Then try to write the song and come up with the licks and the solo. A brilliant musician.
I don't thing he gets credits for his skill as a guitarist and a songwriter. But, when he dies, he will cover the whole front page on every guitar magazine in the world.
Wanna bet?
Sorely underrated! I wonder if they would have taken off the way they did without Ed in the beginning?
Ed was part of Strawberry Alarm Clock and wrote the bridge & solo for Incense & Peppermints, but never got song writing credit and has never made a dime from the copyright to this day. Thankfully he hit it big with Sweet Home.
Ray Ross, Several others as well including Saturday Night Special
I don't want him to die.
Heard last notes news Ed was having issues with heart. Can't remember details. Sorry. No do do here.
Love seeing Ronnie give ol' Ed a pat on the butt after the song ends. One legend acknowledging another.
My favorite version of this wonderful band! They set the standard for rock bands for the next 50 years.
Yes
Rest In Peace Ed, I’ll never forget the kindness you showed me by taking the time to hold a conversation with me on Facebook. Thanks for the music
Whoa! No $h1t?! I'm envious! =D
I was backstage at their 1987 reunion concert. Ed King and Artimus Pyle made an effort to take photos with the fans! Good guys! 🤘
I Love watching MR. Allen Collins....His life wound up so Brutal just unforgiving his smile could light up a room Rest in Peace Allen....an the rest of The Band...now you got Gary up there to play those ripping solo's...Allen was the Real deal...
Even 500 years from now, this song will be played far away from here, among the stars on a space ship.
Ed King just killing it on one of my all time favorite songs!! 👍🏼
Only Leonard Skynyrd could make the Confederate flag look so harmless. This song is the national Anthem of the south . Love it !
I just loved once again crossing from GA today into "SWEET HOME ALABAMA " on I -20! Many,many thanks owed to Mr Ronnie VanZant and Lynyrd Skynyrd for that!!!!❤
Fo-sho!
Seriously who would put a thumbs down on these priceless videos of real rock and roll? Dam! These need to be in a movie for every one to enjoy.
Everyone in that band was so talented!
These where the days. Youngbloods take note this is a real southern rock band. Best in the land. They have rode coast to coast with me since 1975. Much respect
Allen Collins was one tall dude. God bless one of the best southern rocks bands ever that brought so much love and joy to everyone. RIP to all those who served in this mighty awesome band.
Yup Allen was 6,3
@@TheNirvanaNerd87 And poor Gary (RIP) was only around 5'8. No wonder he wore heels on stage!
You can see Ronnie lean over and tap and tell ed cool it on the long solo. Ed was shredding and couldn't stop. I love this band 😂💙
He said slow down, Ed was going over tempo a bit. The solo is literally in the studio song, he wasn't shredding idiot.
@@Kurtis11266 He was actually saying slow down because ed drug the solo out longer than it actually was. Dipshit. That's Coming from a guitar player and singer. Not some Moron on TH-cam. That solo is Different and Longer in this Video. Genius
@@Dr.Music77 I just listened to your alabama shorts and you can't even play it right let alone sing it right, you got no idea what you're talking about. He was saying slow down because he went over tempo, don't be so egotistical.
@@Kurtis11266 lets hear you do it big boy
@@Kurtis11266 Me egotistical? Haha your the one that just Had To "Correct" me on Something? Even though you're wrong. So you take personal shots 😂 Besides, I wasnt even the One playing Guitar on that one. So Nice try Jackass. Im sure you're a professional Musician And Voice coach too right?
Billy Powell and Ed King make this song what it is! GREAT
RIP Ed King. Thanks for the music.
Bob Burns was the Charlie Watts of Southern Rock! Bobs drum work was perfect for the songs. He was a clock!!
Too many drummers I’ve played with over the years over play this song. Artie also has a great version, but Bob just makes this song with that tempo. Classic…..Bob is definitely the most forgotten foundation of this band. He was such a genuine fellow.
You are right. I went back and listened closely bc I’m a songwriter, not much of a live performer, and I can def hear the strong steady beat in just right time.
Much love and respect to Mr. Ed King. You were an original.
What a gem this video is! Look at them, they're like kids. Little did they know how Alabama would be ingrained into American culture.
Loved this band for 40 years now and they never, ever get old. Wow, what talent. I wish I appreciated them then as I do now. Not sure what good it would have done, but I really miss that talent.
BORING.... HAIST....
“I wish I appreciated them then as I do now”. I’ve been saying the same thing the last few years.. My friends and are were too busy going to Allman Bros. Concerts. We missed out on Skynyrd's Asbury Park, NJ Convention Hall appearance July 13th 1977. What I wouldn’t give to go back in time and see that show live.
Yeah man well that's been Lynyrd Skynyrd now another eight years so that's your 48 years on mine I hope you're out there that you can respond to this and still have the same name party ability to see it it does nothing but get better yeah?
Hit me back man.
PLAY FREEBIRD MAN
we were young and easily distracted . Time goes by and the good stuff seems to hold up and it's highlighted by the perspective only time can bring . I loved them as a kid but I never knew how good they really were till I began to struggle with the guitar and song writing .I want to go back and do it all over but I cant go back I know . Eddie Mahoney
Ed King helped to make the album "NUTHIN FANCY" (1975), the BEST Skynyrd album of all time! Ed King, along with Alan Collins and Gary Rossington, with their key guitar solos, really was INSTRUMENTAL In making It the great album that It Is. Unfortunately though, this album is extremely UNDERRATED!!! Born sane In a Insane world 😮....
Nuthin Fancy is also a favorite of mine, "Saturday Night Special" is another Ed King masterpiece 👍
Best live version I have found on the internet. Ed King was still in the band, and they do not play it too fast as in some other versions I have seen. That driving, steady tempo is one of the things that make this song great. I am glad I got to see them in 1975 just a few months before Ed left the band.
yeah I did, too, mid-75 at the Swing Auditorium inn San Bernardino.
You guys are very lucky to have had that experience, I would have loved to see them when Ed was still in the band. Their first 3 albums with Ed are the most important to me and I feel those albums to capture the true essence of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
They were never the same again without him.
@@aschule5684 I agree that Ed had a unique style that was big part of their early sound. One regret that I do have, however, is not going to see them in Greenville, SC at their last show in 1977 before the plane crash. I grew up in the Greenville-Spartanburg area, and I used to see a lot of concerts at the Greenville Auditorium. My father worked in Greenville. My buddies asked me to go with them to the show that night, but I think I had to work and did not make it. I should have skipped work. It took my breath away the next day when I heard about the plane crash knowing they had just taken off from our hometown airport. I was 18 then. I cannot believe it has been almost 45 years.
The heavy dude is Ed King, the original picker of this song, took me a while to figure out he was the writer, no other band member can play this song right except Ed...Go Ed !
Ed King was in Strawberry Alarmclock before Skynyrd!
Kelly Jay
Thx Kelly--interesting.
Not all together true. Gary came up with the first three cords, then Ed arranged the rest. But, Ronnie, Ed and Gary wrote the lyrics jointly. By the way: Ed was born in Glendale, California; not sweet home Alabama, so it stands to reason he got a little help from a couple southern boys.
Yes Scott, your correct
"Not altogether true", but the strong picking pattern and the lead guitars that
were Eds is what really characterized the feel of the song (IMO).. It’s sort of a back beat, mixed with triplets.
None of the other players could do this.
Must have been that "LA technique" he learned from GIT :)
Yes, and it's too bad he decided to leave. For years, I thought he was rhythm only; come to find out he's one of the best lead guitarists in history. He contributed sooo much for LS. I just wish he'd have formed is own group, but he couldn't stand the music business, understandably.
It amazes me how they had so many people on guitars and made it sound so fantastic. Talk about teamwork to a goal. What a unique bunch of people to pull this off. I wish I had found the importance of their music earlier in life. I listened to it.....just didn't feel it until recently.
3 guitar attack band lol
Ed King coined this guitar lick, U rock on Ed!
Hugh Guidi yes you are correct on your points except as it really happened was Gary was playing a riff that till this day still plays during sweet home that Ed heard and Ed added that well know intro but without Gary's inspiration the sound may never have been written. Look I love skynyrd. They are my favorite band hands down. Each guy had there purpose that made them great. Love you guys
Wow!..... When music was music.
I couldn't agree more!
flash001USA
Great times.. the real thing. 👍🏻
It’s just changed. Migos, etc now
Saw them play at the Georgia Tech student center in the mid-70’s before a small crowd. They loaded their own equipment. Then almost overnight they were a hit sensation. Played in front of The Who in Atlanta and were off to the races.
Billy Powell has to be the best piano player I've ever seen may he RIP.
Billy Powell, Paul Griffin, Ray Charles, Larry Knechtel, Billy Preston, Leon Russell, Nicky Hopkins, Ray Manzarek, Bob Mayo, Keith Emerson, Dr John, Rick Wakeman, Tony Banks, Jordan Rudess - who did I miss? (only the last three are still alive as of 2023)
I missed plenty: Elton John for starters, also Bruce Hornsby (although he's on the fringes of Jazz, so maybe not quite the target demographic for this list). I was thinking Rod Argent is right up there on talent and creativity but he didn't play a lot of piano (when he did, it was worth listening). I don't know how I forgot Chuck Leavell, though. No doubt there's heaps more.
Yes,&the Stray Cats got them a good one too!
@@GottenhimfellaStevie Wonder&Lionel Richie aren't bad either. Lots of talent!
may 12 1974, 43 years ago..the original "raw" version (and best) of Sweet home Alabama!
I agree!
You are so right..just listen..Old Fucking School...does your conscience both us? Yea...
Yoy are so right
Alabama! And?!
RIP Mr King very talented guitarist and songwriter
Listening to songs like this in theses times keeps me alive
Ed was so under-rated, Allen Collins was incredible
too. As nice and simple sounding as the leads are in SHA ,
they are anything but simple, they are a great joy to be
able to play as Ed played them, you will find .02 out of a
hundred players actually play the solos as Ed did in that song,
anyone can play over it, but it is extremely rare to find someone
that understands the passing tone structure and weaving-finesse
that he had with it.
The soloing by
Allen Collins in Freebird is also amazing, simple
for the most part, but amazing,
he brought in some groundbreaking riffage in that song.
Yea Ed was a genius on that guitar. Such an innovative guitarist. One of my favorites for sure
Yeah and he sure liked to dance
@@bikersoncall Allen was always boogieing on stage, high energy, that’s what I mean, love this band😎
@@NathanSmith-xf7rk 😂I misunderstood
the comment, I'd never noticed that
on stage. My bad...
Ed King played a very Big role in the success of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
great guitarist, could not sing
Amen! REST IN SONG ED!!!!
RIP most under rated guitar , he was responsible for this monster hit
Yes he certainly did. They were not really going anywhere until SHA. We may have never heard of LS were it not for Ed's SHA guitar work.
@@marcclement7396 He didn't have to. That was Ronnie's job
RONNIE VAN ZANT GODFATHER OF SOUTHERN ROCK......
What about Gregg and Duane Allman, along with Dickie Betts? The Allman Brothers Band? Perhaps they were more prolific.
Father of imo. King of Southern rock!
@@Rayburn58😅
this is The "Original" Sweet Home Alabama
Oh yeah
RIP Ed King. Thanks for the great memories.
More talent than that stage could handle. Unbelievable.
R.I.P. original members. Been following you since 1973. Literally cried when you went down. God Speed!
Also me
the southern man from southern california writes the most iconic southern rock riff of all time...mr. Ed King!
Ed King was one of the greatest. Ed told the story of how Ronnie walked over to him and whispered the lyrics and he listened and then hit that opening lick and the rest was rock and roll history.
Actually, that was 'Saturday Night Special' that he whispered in Ed's ear. "Two feets they come a-creepin', like a black cat do." Ed said he was blown away by that line.
@@jimirayo No Sir
@@davidfloyd6962 Yes Sir.
Jimi Ray I researched it some more. I did find one interview where Ed King made the statement about that line and Ronnie whispering to him. It's not worth arguing about. I love all southern rock. Raised on it in the seventies. I just am wondering if you ever saw them live before the crash?
@@davidfloyd6962 Someone on the internet is wrong! I must correct them! LOL! It's all good. Yes. The only time I saw them was with Grinderswitch, Wet Willie and Marshall Tucker at Atlanta Stadium in 1973 just after they released 'Pronounced'. The classic lineup, IMHO. I rushed out and bought the album the next day.
Every member of that band was a genius, fantastic songwriter's, musicians,singer...ended far to soon, RIP guy's
Ed King R.I.P "one, two, three"
Triestini is that what he said?
SuperSmashBros.mp4 at the beginning of sweet home Alabama you hear “one, two, three” and that’s Ed king counting off the song
lsunationalchamps08 oh ok
Ed did a lot, God bless his soul. I love the interview he did Marty Swartz. A must watch.
Ed King really made this band!! He is a great guitar player!!!!
Get a grip!
They made a big mistake to let go of Ed King but in retrospect he wasn't around when their plane went down. He is my favorite.Cool and coolheaded.
Ed’s playing is so smooth! Definitely a lot more should’ve been said about him. Definitely a major gift.
Wow Ed looks so happy. And it seemed so kind for Allen and Gary to sandwich him during his solo. What a great player he was. Rest in Peace Ed.
His smile directed to Ronnie!
50 years old this tune and still rocking!!!
51 now
its jus crazy how MANY talented guitar players ronnie had at his disposal , wish i had that lol
Rest in Peace-Ed King
RIP Mr King very talented guitarist and songwriter
This song is a 4th of July tradition! You simply can't have a good 4th of July soundtrack without it.
I was a fan of Ed King back
In the days of his 1st band Strawberry alarm clock, writing their 2 biggest hits!
What a talent and he really jumpstarted Skynyrd!
RIP Ed
Yep. Mr. Ed King. When you hear those amazing licks on Sweet Home Alabama after Ronnie says "Here I come.." ...youre hearing Mr. Ed King. A truly great picker amongst pickers.
Seen them at Sedalia, Missouri in 1974 they kicked some ass making all 650,000 people sing along. It was a great afternoon, one that I'll never forget. Turn it up!
videovanoo7 More than half a million people, really??
So you're one of these lucky bastards too, huh?
I can’t remember that many people there at the concert …
But it was packed with people four sure … I remember the mud Marathon there as well at the fair 1974
Rock on 🎼🎸🎸🎸
I was 7 years old when this was sung. I remember the first time hearing it on the radio. Being from southeast Alabama I realized how awesome we are. Only a small overlooked and stereotyped people. I was so proud and still to this day 50 years later. Very proud to be an American. God bless us and our allies!
Best band ever ! God Bless them forever and their families !!!
Rest in Peace now and forever Ed King...co creator of Lynyrd Skynyrd ! he is jamming out with Ronnie and the crew..!
not co-creator. he came years after they formed.
Rest In Peace Ed...Thanks for the amazing Music.
All gone now,playing together in heaven.RIP GUYS.Love from Greece 🇬🇷 to y’all Skynyrd fans!
Nobody can make a strat squeal like Ed king rip one of my favorites
Ed King was a guitar Master! The others guys were great too, but here in this song, Ed shines as no one else ever could have. (My opinion) Rossington had the D, C, G progression but Ed turned it into a masterpiece with his riffs and solos. I don't think he was allowed to play like this in his Strawberry Alarm Clock days, but in Skynyrd, Ed was allowed to show what he could do and we are all better off for it.
Best band just imgaine how many more songs in the kids head my oh my every song ment something about there life my fav band from 1976 till now
R.I.P ED KING You'll forever be in my thoughts and prayers with all the rest of the original LYNYRD SKYNYRD BAND GOD BLESS
I like the way Ronnie pops Ed on the rear while leaving the stage indicating he was pleased with his performance.
God bless you Ed. You wrote the greatest rock song in music history. RIP. I pray you are jamming with the rest of the Lynard Skynard boys in heaven!
As a guitar player, I have analyzed Ed's technique through headphones for hours and this is one recording captures his technique beautifully. You can actually hear the finesse of his fingering so technically perfect that includes a feeling that simply cant be copied. That relatively simple intro he plays is impossible to get it to sound the way he makes it sound. Ive heard it played quite possibly more than any song covered in any genre and no one can make it sound just like Ed. Next time you see some band at your local pub attempt this song, listen close and you will hear what im talking about!! Ed King,
You are up there with all the greats! And that little diddy you created, that you probably never gave much thought , will continue to frustrate guitarists till the end of time!!!
Thanks ronnie!!! One of the greatest songs in the U.S.A .
I just happened on this.
The pleasure on his face as he sang made me smile.
🙂❤
❤Ronnie!
Amazing they had three great guitar players that knew how to give each other room to shine.
I love Allen just singing along at 1:56 ❤
My goodness, Collins and Rossington were both juveniles when they hit it big, that's for sure! I think they were both 18 when the deal with MCA was signed. Both sooo young, yet so very good at their craft!
Yes I was always amazed that these two totally uneducated, economically very poor individuals right off the street were able to achieve such excellence. And drop-dead consistency.
Allen Collins was fabulous!
Rest in Peace-Ed King
Ed King was KING!
Great strat tone. Great, inventive licks and solos. He's always had the most identifiable playing out of the guitarists in the band. Also his playing is a bit more advanced than Gary or Allen's imo.
@@SuperStrik9 It's amazing how much of a difference there is when Ed King is playing Sweet Home Alabama. The fact that even I, who am not even a guitar aficionado, can tell means that he must have *really* been up among the gods, because all the Skynyrd guitarists were top notch!
@@SuperStrik9 YES
I'm definitely going to have to listen to Sweet home Alabama with Ed King playing because I just listened to it for the first time the version I have always heard is our only fantastic also.
Holy shot. Ed King way underrated Hell of a solo
Thank u Ed 4 sharing your greatness an launching the boys in rite direction witch they we're heading that way already but now thanks 2 u with the rite sound n tone Allen league of his own best picker ever
RIP...Ed King. (Sept.14, 1949 - Aug.22, 2018)
Guitarist for the psychedelic rock band Strawberry Alarm Clock .
Guitarist and bassist for the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd
from 1972 to 1975 and again from 1987 to 1996...
Nobody and I mean nobody could play this song like Ed King Steve was a great addition after Ed and one of the most gifted guitarists of all time but he didn’t do this particular song justice Ed was just something else 🙏
Legendary band and a timeless song ! Great performance
Ed King has left the building... RIP
Be still my heart for Allen Collins. So sad for all to be gone but Gary.
Love to watch Ed play the opening lick live here! He does the musician's 'funky neck thing', which makes me appreciate the 'funkiness' of the lick even more! RIP!
Ed King always will be one of the all time greatest...
Farewell Ed King.
Rest in Peace-Ed King
My favorite best sounding Fender strat tone I have always loved..thank you Mr. Ed King..been searching for it since then..killer tone!
Thank you Mr. Ed King for what is probably the most recognized opening guitar lick known worldwide...
Ed King was a great guitarist and he was a real easy going & laid back kinda guy, so he couldn't really relate or tolerate all the fighting & drunken rowdiness. I think he was a bit intimidated by Ronnie to because all the stories and his reputation of being quick to fight and good at it were all true and earned honestly. His dad was a trained prize fighter, and made sure his sons knew how to throw them Duke's! Ed packed up and left the tour one night after a show. Ultimately quitting the band for good, after Ronnie came into their hotel, angry over Ed's performance and commented that he wasnt even comparable to Gary or Allen as a guitarist, and couldn't play worth a damn. The addition of Steve Gaines was no mistake though! Anything can get monotonous if you do it long enough, so he brought a renewed enthusiasm to the band and that was just the streak of lightening they needed. Steve was a complete musician. He was a very accomplished guitarist, and could sing, write, and compose. Most don't realize that it's Steve and Ronnie both singing, but just alternating the verses between them on the song titled, "You got that right" that was on their latest 1977 album called Street Survivors. Released just 2-3 days prior to their plane crash. It also included the title track of "Ain't no good life" which he wrote and features just him singing it.
Ed was touring in 60's with the Strawberry Alarm Clock. By 1974 he had his fill of the road. Plus he wrote Sweet Home Alabama that's a royalties $ Bonanza!
RIP Allen RIP Ed RIP Roonie RIP Leon and RIP Gaines there rockin in heaven now
Wait a minute. You forgot Billy. 🤨😠⚡
Always come back to watch Ed King. Legend that never got the credit he deserved.
Farewell Ed King.