The Rossington Collins Band was formed in 1979 in Jacksonville, Florida, by former members of Lynyrd Skynyrd following the tragic plane crash in 1977 that led to the band’s hiatus. The Rossington Collins Band was active primarily from 1979 to 1982 and released two studio albums, Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere in 1980 and This Is the Way in 1981. Despite their brief period of activity, the band made a significant impact with their blend of Southern rock and blues. The band’s formation was a response to the tragic events that affected Lynyrd Skynyrd, aiming to continue their musical legacy in a new form. The band ceased activities in the early 1980s following internal struggles and the challenges of moving past their Lynyrd Skynyrd roots.
Gary Rossington
Gary Rossington played guitar in the Rossington Collins Band and was one of its founding members, carrying over his profound musical influences from Lynyrd Skynyrd, where he was a key guitarist. Rossington contributed to both of the band’s albums, Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere and This Is the Way. His guitar work continued to reflect the Southern rock style that defined much of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music. After the disbandment of Rossington Collins Band, he was instrumental in the reformation of Lynyrd Skynyrd and remained involved with them, contributing significantly to their continued success and legacy.
Allen Collins
Allen Collins, another founding member from Lynyrd Skynyrd, played guitar alongside Rossington. Collins’s aggressive and melodic guitar style was a staple in the band’s sound, particularly evident in tracks from their debut album. His playing was crucial in defining the band’s musical direction. Following the dissolution of the Rossington Collins Band, Collins faced personal tragedies and health issues, which limited his musical career thereafter. He passed away in 1990, leaving behind a legacy marked by his influential guitar work.
Leon Wilkeson
Leon Wilkeson, the bassist for the Rossington Collins Band, brought his distinctive bass playing from Lynyrd Skynyrd to the group. He played on both of the band’s albums, where his performance continued to showcase his ability to blend seamlessly with the guitar-driven structure of Southern rock. Wilkeson returned to Lynyrd Skynyrd when they reformed and continued to perform with them until his death in 2001.
Billy Powell
Billy Powell handled the keyboards for the Rossington Collins Band, a role he reprised from his time with Lynyrd Skynyrd. His keyboard skills added a unique layer to the band’s sound, enriching their music with his classical and rock influences. Powell played on both albums, contributing to the band’s distinctive sound. He, too, rejoined Lynyrd Skynyrd during their later reunions and remained with the band until his death in 2009.
Dale Krantz-Rossington
Dale Krantz-Rossington served as the lead vocalist for the Rossington Collins Band. Prior to joining the band, she worked as a backup singer for .38 Special, another band from the Southern rock genre. Her powerful vocals were a defining feature of the band’s music, particularly highlighted on the debut album. Dale married Gary Rossington in 1982, and after the band’s breakup, she continued to perform, often collaborating with her husband in musical projects, including those involving Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Barry Lee Harwood
Barry Lee Harwood played guitar and provided vocals for the Rossington Collins Band. Before joining the band, Harwood was involved in other musical projects but gained significant recognition through his work with the Rossington Collins Band, contributing to both of their albums. His role was vital in both lead and harmony vocals, and his guitar work complemented the established styles of Rossington and Collins. After the band dissolved, Harwood pursued other musical opportunities, including solo projects.
Derek Hess
Derek Hess was the drummer and percussionist for the Rossington Collins Band. His involvement added a robust rhythmic foundation to the band’s music, playing on both of their studio albums. Hess’s style was adaptable, fitting well with the band’s blend of rock and blues influences. Post-Rossington Collins Band, Hess continued to work in music, playing for various bands and sessions, contributing to projects across different genres.