WCSX Classic Cuts
Lynyrd Skynyrd: “Saturday Night Special”
The Hook: The demo was recorded with a drummer who was auditioning for the band, but would soon officially join.
Album: Nuthin’ Fancy
Year: 1975
Writers: Ed King and Ronnie Van Zant
Stats: Peaked at number-27 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Background: Guitarist Ed King co-wrote Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Saturday Night Special” with singer Ronnie Van Zant. But King tells us that what he recalls most about it has to do with a drummer who hadn’t even joined the band at the time, Artimus Pyle.
Former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King on why “Saturday Night Special” makes him think of their onetime drummer Artimus Pyle. OC:…member yet. :09
“’ Saturday Night Special’ brings back memories to me, because Artimus wasn’t even in the band yet. Leon and I went down to audition him and he played on that tune even though he wasn’t a member yet.”
