Lynyrd Skynyrd at Ruoff Music Center on August 7, 2026
- LLFoxphotos
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
The Double Trouble Double Vision Tour with Foreigner
Noblesville, IN
Photos by Laura Fox
Review by Dave Fox
Although several bands come to mind when you think of southern rock, I think it's safe to say that Lynyrd Skynyrd is THE defining sound of that genre. Now celebrating 50 years since the release of their first studio album, Lynyrd Skynyrd doesn't have to prove anything to anyone, yet they continue to tour, delighting long-time fans and making new ones every year.
Lynyrd Skynyrd's show at Ruoff Music Center on August 8, 2026 came after a gritty southern-rock set by Six Gun Sally and a powerful, classic-rock performance by co-headliners Foreigner. Lynyrd Skynyrd opened with "Working for the MCA," their 1974 satirical poke at the record industry.
The Lynyrd Skynyrd lineup consists Johnny Van Zandt (lead vocals, guitar), Rickey Medlocke (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Michael Cartellone (drums) Peter Keys (keyboards), Robbie Harrington (bass), Mark Matejka (guitar, vocals), Damon Johnson (guitar) and backup singers Carol Chase and Stacy Michelle.
HIghlights of the show included an emotional slideshow featuring past band members during "Tuesday's Gone," and a slick piano solo by Peter Keys during "Breeze." The dedication of "Simple Man" to military personnel and first responders brought out the cell phones and lighters as the crowd swayed to the tune.
As Lynyrd Skynyrd's set drew to a close, fans started chanting, "Free Bird." They knew it was coming; the iconic song is always the final song at every show. Laura and I were pleasantly surprised by the new "disco ball" theme during the "Free Bird" production. It reminded us of the days we danced to that song in high school. (Corny, but true.) As I looked around, everyone was on their feet, singing along to the words they knew by heart.
I think when fans left Ruoff Music Center Friday night, they were a little happier than when they came in. That's just the kind of night it was.
Lynyrd Skynyrd will continue touring the US through mid-November, and heading over to Europe in 2027. For tour dates and more, click here:
Here's a live version of "Free Bird" live for your viewing pleasure:
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