Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Michael Cartellone is not angry with people who call them a tribute band.
In a new interview with VRP Rocks, the drummer was asked if he gets offended whenever someone calls Lynyrd Skynyrd a tribute band. He said that as long as people appreciate what the band does, it’s okay:
“I do not blame anyone out there that feels, ‘Well, that’s not the original band. That’s just a tribute band.’ That’s fine, they’re entitled to that. It’s the people that are coming out to still see us play who are loving the music and still appreciating the fact that we’re keeping the music alive. And I’m happy and I’m appreciative to them.”
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Plans Of New Music
Considering the fact that ‘tribute bands’ don’t come up with new songs, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s plans might change it all.
During a chat with Dr. Music, Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Rickey Medlocke confirmed that he and Johnny Van Zant have been talking about recording new songs. In fact, they have ‘a ton of material’ in hand. He explained:
“Johnny and I have been talking about it. And I think you might see it materialize at some point, because I would like to see some of these tunes that Gary was a part of [getting released]. I mean, we’ve got tapes, man — we’ve got tapes of where we’re sitting and we’re talking and laughing and joking around, and you hear Gary talking. It’s great.”
The band already has some album plans. But this time, it’s not rock. Van Zant explained in a social media post:
“Happy Sunday! I am back in Nashville today with my brother, Donnie. We are doing a quick trip to record for our new gospel album! This has been 3 years in the making and I am very excited to get it out to you all and to hear your feedback. I will make sure to keep everyone updated, but we are having a blast in the meantime!”
You can watch the interview below.