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Simple Man (Lynyrd Skynyrd song)
1973 song by Lynyrd Skynyrd From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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"Simple Man" is a song by American rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, released on their debut studio album, (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd) (1973).
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The song is one of Lynyrd Skynyrd's most popular. Since the song became available for digital download, it has become Lynyrd Skynyrd's third best-selling digital song after "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Free Bird." It has sold 1,333,000 copies in the U.S. as of November 2013.[1]
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Musical structure
"Simple Man" is written in the key of A minor/C major, though all guitars were tuned down a half step, effectively making it G♯ minor/B major. The song begins with an electric arpeggiated chord sequence made up of the chords C major, G major and A minor (though with the tuned-down guitars, effective progression of B major, F♯ major, and G♯ minor). This intro is accompanied by a bass line and cymbals before the drums and vocals come in for the verse. Lyrically, the song is about a mother talking to her child about life, inspired by the passing of Ronnie Van Zant's grandmother.[citation needed] The chorus of the song includes electric guitars playing variations on the arpeggiated intro progression. The guitar solo is performed by Gary Rossington.
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Personnel
Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Ronnie Van Zant – lead vocals
- Gary Rossington – lead guitar
- Allen Collins – rhythm guitar
- Ed King – bass
- Bob Burns – drums
- Billy Powell – keyboards
Additional personnel
- Al Kooper – organ
Charts
Certifications
References
External links
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