Shared Memories

Steve and Cassie

Read On Below For Fan's Memories Added Regularly 
As They Are Emailed To Us

A Dad's Memory....

Steve and Cassie ~ Christmas

Your Personal Memories of Steve and Cassie
are Welcomed To Be Considered Send Here

Fan Memories...

Hi Folks-

I'm in to Skynyrd for the second time in 19 years..What a group of talent! I
am particulary impressed with Steve and Leon..RIP..I hope to meet the entire
band someday...
God Bless....
Faninmass

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I really enjoyed browsing the Steve Gaines website.
I saw Steve play at the Willie Nelson picnic in Tulsa, OK.  Best concert I
ever saw.
I remember when Steve and his band Crawdad used to play in Galena, KS at a
place called The Ranch. I think that was the name of the place.  I also
remember missing the chance to hear him play in Corona, KS right after he
joined Lynard Skynard.
Great site and it brings back great memories of great music.

David Cavaness

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Teresa,  just want to let you know that you have done one hell of an awesome
job with your website. it kicks ass and i think it is a wonderfull tribute as
well as a great and much appriciated site to help the fans keep their undying
love and admiration alive. thank you for making such a website possible. is
there any way to purchase photos of the past? let me know. you are awesome
Teresa!


                                    thanks for the memories!

                                    shawna - in Napa,California

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Theresa (I hope),
I have just visited your site to Steve and Cassie
for the first time. Thank you so much for
creating the site and sharing all the photos.
They brought tears to my eyes, especially the
family ones when your daughter was a toddler. How
kind and sharing it is of you to share your life
with the fans. I always seemed like us fans were
"family" because of the love for the band over
all the years. I've loved them since I was 18 and
heard Sweet Home Alabama on the radio. I became
the die hard fan when Street Survivors was
released. I went absolutely crazy listening to it
and have NEVER tired of it. The songs have been a
major part of my life, good and bad. Whenever
things are tough, a Skynyrd song will come on the
radio and I have to smile and crank it up. I
can't put into words how the songs make me feel.
I was never fortunate enough to see the band in
the 70's, but the music was always with and a
part of me and then my ultimate dream came true
when I saw the Tribute Tour in 87 and had 2nd row
seats. I have never, ever been to a concert when
I had to fight back tears from the emotion of it
all. Again, thank you for sharing your life with
us.
Vicki from Maryland

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                               I'm forty one years old now im a new to
computers ,and i just found the Lynyrd Skynyrd web site . And god the tears
it has brought I miss you guys with all of my heart . It's  so awsome i can
see pictures of  than band members of what what i think is the greatest Rock
and Roll band  that has ever been i wrote a song entitled  To the Man who led
the Band " Ronnie " , "Steve " , "cassie ", " Allen Collins " and now " Leon
Wilkerson " The best of the  rest it was October 20 th 1977 Ronnie Steve
,Cassie  left us bound for Rock and Roll Heaven It was a night i remember so
well for it was  the night the "FREEBIRD" had fell and the world would see a
change because good ole southern  rock and rool would never be the same since
the crashing of the LYNYRD SKYNYRD  plane .  I could  write for ever and
never say express the love i have for every band member that was a part of
SKYNYRD  . i just want to say to the family of  Steve , Cassie we love them
dearly and miss them . And i"ll say it loud and let it ring we wish they i
wish they all were here to sing

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You know those images you get through life that last that burn into your brain forever? Maybe the first time you saw your daughter's face when she is born. Maybe the first time your wife looked at you in that way that got you hooked forever. Maybe a time hanging out with childhood friends in the tree house that you'll remember forever.

Well, one of my lifelong images is that image of Steve Gaines. I was at a concert Skynyrd played at the Capitol Center in Largo Md, somewhere around 1976/1977. I had seen Skynyrd before at RFK stadium in Washington, DC, but only with Allen and Gary. So, I was very much looking forward to seeing "the new guy".

Naturally, at any show back at that time, good seats were hard to find. And this one was no exception. However, what the Capitol Center did have, was this huge closed circuit TV hanging in the middle of the arena. Skynyrd came on stage and kicked their usual ass. It became obvious immediately that Steve was the exact addition they needed. But what blew me away, was when Steve began playing the slide/lead for "T for Texas". The camera man got this shot of Steve, slightly behind him, and over Steve's right shoulder. A shot right up the guitar neck. Ronnie VanZant was beside Steve, to his left, directly facing the camera, his right shoulder to Steve, holding a white microphone (in fact, in his left hand...that's how well that image "burned in"). When Steve starting laying into that lead, Ronnie just stared at him in awe. Granted, Ronnie had heard more than a few of the very best pickers around. But from the look on his face, you'd think Steve just dropped in from another planet. !
Steve absolutely blew the entire
 house away with that song (much like all the rest he did), along with the rest of the band. I will never, ever, in my life forget that image of Steve Gaines playing that slide while his fingers were still fretting notes while Ronnie just stared at him...obviously blown away.

Although I'm a die-hard Skynyrd fan that likes every song they've ever done as much as the other, my favorite tune that stands above the rest is "T for Texas". That's basically the song that got Steve the gig in the first place (from what I've read), and the song that reminds me of how unbelievably talented Steve was.

So, I can honestly say that Skynyrd made a life-long, positive impact on my life. And as awesome as they were, they couldn't have done it without Steve.

Thanks.

Mike...

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Hello my name is Tim Lewis. I am from Miami, OK.  I was writing to tell you
how great of a person I think you are for doing what you do for Steve.  I am
a friend of Ron Brooks from the Crawdads.  He played drums.  I am in a band
with Ronnie's son Bobby.  The bands name is Hezery.  Ron is always telling
us stories about his days with his friend.  They give us great inspiration. 
Ronnie,Bob, and I went to the Route 66 concert in Joplin,MO and watched
Skynard.  We had a blast.  Ronnie said it is weird hearing a song he used to
play with Steve still getting the crowd going. Once again I want to thank
you.
                                          hope to hear from you,
                                                      Tim Lewis

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Hi, I'd like to tell you what a great job you've done with the website, it's
cool to keep those memories alive, esspecially for people as young as I (18)
who were never able to see these great people perform.   Lynyrd Skynyrd has
been my fav. band ever since I heard 'Tuesday's Gone' and 'Free Bird' and
now all of the other songs are rubbing off on me.  I was wondering if there
was ever a publication of the 1976 Fox Theatre show that has the live Free
Bird that is featured on the 'Essential' album, I am truely in love with the
way it was performed that day, it sounds like they poured their hearts and
souls into every note and beat played and sang that day, Steve and Allen did
a wonderful job during the awesome closing solo's, they sounded like they
were really enjoying it, along with the rest of the band and the crowd and
I'd like to be able to view it......  Oh, and just a little note, that I'm
proud of, I graduated this year and we had to nominate songs for our class
song, I nominated 'Free Bird', and that's what I graduated too, made the day
a whole lot better as if it could have gotten better.  The only way it was
possible, in my mind, is because of the maturity the band received after
Steve joined, that's one thing that I've always heard, the little brother of
a sister who sang back-up in a band, he was given a shot, and came through,
for all of us......  Thank you!!!

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Teresa,  I have been a Skynard fan since around 1975. I am 44 years old today and I still am listening to their music. I wasn't able to get to their concerts when I was in my 20's. But,, on September 6th, 2001, I will be going to see them. I am very excited. Because of Steve, Allen and Gary, I discovered the sound I needed to play. My heart goes out for all of Steve and Cassie's family. Ronnie VanZant will always be remembered for his unique style of performance. When I play their CD's ,, I feel like I am right there along with them. TURN IT UP.  Thank you for giving us,, the fans a turn to speak.    David Hayden   Portsmouth Virginia

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I just wanted to say, I think your website is great! Steve and Cassie were
both so talented and they hardley get the recognition they deserve in my
opinion. I am 19 years old and I love Skynyrd to death, but Steve just stood
out to me. I fell in love with his voice the first time I heard it. It's a
shame that such a great life or such great lives I guess I should say, were
cut so short. It's really cool that you put so much time and effort into
creating a site for the fans to enjoy. I wish the best of luck to you all!  
Thank You!!!!                                                                 
              
                                                                             
       *********************             

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Teresa: I was in college at Oklahoma State University on October 20, 1977. While driving down Duck street I was listening to the radio when a bulletin came over that Steve and Cassie had been killed in the plane crash along with Ronnie VanZant. I was a strong listener of Lynryd Skynrd simple because Steve and Cassie were dear friends. I grew up with the Gaines family in Miami, Oklahoma and graduated with Steve in 1967. Also Steve and Cassie were related to me as cousins. I remember Steve's band playing the prom, and playing baseball with Steve in our earlier years. I remember you and Steve dating but I was away at college when you got married. Richard W. Hawkins, Stillwater, Oklahoma

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I know you get these all the time, and I'm not old enough to remember Steve
Gaines, but his music still lives on. I am a 21 year old drummer and Lynyrd
Skynyrd is my all time favorite band. Steve Gaines will always be
remembered as the best guitar player for the all time greatest band in the
history of music.

Always a friend,
Willis J. Roberson

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That was cool that the Skynyrd site had a link to yours. Those of us that
grew up here in the late 60's and 70's could never forget the people we
loved so much. Steve and Cassie were as much a part of that as well as
anyone else. Having helped "Time Piece" when i wasn't travelling got to
know teresa and having already known Barry knew what fine people they
were and it shows by creating this web site. I'll look forward to new
things and will visit often. Good luck, and thanks for sharing......

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It was great to come across this web site
Steve was such an amazing picker and I love to listen to some of the live
songs with him plain, keep up the site it is great
             Thanks Joe Taylor   Baltimore, Ohio

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Hello,
It's nice to finally see a site this good, for Steve.
I would like to send you some of the pictures
that vie taken over the years. please let me know what I have to do.

   Thank you,
John (Long Island, NY)

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 Teresa,  You have you a great site.  When, I was 3 years old, my daddy
would play Skynyrd all the time for me.  Even though Steve and Cassie and
Ronnie were dead before I was born, I still loved them, and always will.  I
want to tell you thank you for keeping the Skynyrd legacy alive.  We will
always miss them.  
-Dixie Baker [><]

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Teresa,
If you'll search the far reaches of your memory, during the "Crawdad" days in Miami, you might remember a tall skinny kid with thick glasses that would come by your home sometimes, with your brother Gabe.

I think the first time I met you, was actually at your mom and dad's one year around Christmas or maybe Thanksgiving. This probably would have been 1972 maybe 1973. I think it was before you came back from Detroit. I don't remember meeting Steve that day, but not too long after that you both were living in Miami, and I met him and a couple of other guys loading up equipment, getting ready to go setup to play. I think they were going to go play up at the warehouse where your dad drove the milk delivery truck out of, behind the skating rink. I remember on several occasions hearing them play there, while Gabe and I were wasting our nights cruising Main Street trying to find some girls that would pay attention to us....haha!

One afternoon I remember very well was a hot summer afternoon and we drove up to your place (I think it was on “K” street maybe…somewhere between the Baptist hospital and the Neosho). Steve was sitting on the sidewalk with a bunch of lumber, and speakers and wires and such. He was building some speaker cabinets and Gabe and I sat there and pestered him until he finished. This was during a time when “Crawdad” was playing at the “Ranch” in Galena quite a bit. He talked more in that 45 minutes or so, than all the other times I was around him put together. It was nice of him to not chase us off that afternoon.

I always enjoyed listening to and watching Steve play, because he was always into the music and not into the performance. I’m glad you’ve taken the time and effort to remind us a little about the times when Steve and Cassie were with us. (She used to substitute teach at MHS, most of the time for Adda Hall, my algebra and geometry teacher. Cassie was a blast as a “teacher”, but then that’s another story!) I miss them both when I reminisce about Miami.

Wishing you the best!

--
Doug Clanton

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Hi Teresa,
I just want to say thanks for making this site so amazing!! I didn't
ever get a chance to meet Steve or Cassie, but through this web site and
their music it's easy to see that they were very special people. There
is no question that you and others have dedicated yourselves to keep
Steve and Cassie's memories alive. Thanks a lot for doing this!!
I have Okie Special and I know a little" Live" and they are both sound
great!!
                                  Remembering Steve and Cassie Always,
                                         Mark Popelars

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Dear Teresa,  

My name is Jeff McGuire I am 39 years old and live in
Dyersburg , Tennessee which is about 90 miles north of Memphis. I didn't
become a fan of Skynyrd until  I heard a mini concert that rock 103 in
Memphis did In the later days of October 1977 after that tragic event that
changed our lives forever. I was lying in bed when I heard the most wicked
and soulful strat fills that I had ever heard or since heard. It was Steve
on Call me the breeze. I then went out and bought Street Survivors. Everyone
was talking about what a great album it was. It is still in my opinion one
of the greatest albums ever! I quickly started buying all the Skynyrd albums
I could get my hands on. Know growing up in the 70's Everyone had heard
Sweet home Alabama and Freebird but I was determined to learn all that I
could about the band. After listening to all 7 albums my two favorites were
one more from the road and Street survivors. I wonder why ? It's because
Steve Gaines added a fire and freshness to the band that Hadn't been there.
Street survivors was definitely Steve's coming out party. Man ,you can just
hear his influence all over that record. Since then I have went back and
tried to get my hands on everything that had Steve's name on it. the two
albums that are on the net are just mind blowing! please get some more stuff
if possible. I talked to Ron brooks in Miami Ok and he told me about all the
shows he did with Steve I could have talked for hours. I told him that I
have Eric Clapton' s autograph but would gladly give it up if I had
something with Steve's name on it. He grew very silent and said that he
would give anything to bring him back. I later talked with Steve and
Cassie's brother Bobby in Glenwood Springs, Co, I didn't take up much of his
time but just told him that his brother is the reason I play guitar. He was
very nice and took my name and phone number and address and said that he
would get in touch someday. I can only imagine the pain the poor guy went
through to lose both of his siblings at once then lost his mother lest than
2 yrs. later. I hope God will Smile on all of you in your lives because the
whole Gaines family has had it share of heartaches. But getting back to the
thrill of my live involving Steve and Cassie there was this guy that lived
in Dyersburg about 12 yrs. ago who said that he went to high school with
Steve and Cassie IN Miami OK,. We just kind of laughed and shrugged it off
until he brought a Miami ok 1966 yearbook. Wow the war dogs! Steve was a
junior and Cassie was a Senior I also noticed a guy that played a little
football for the Sooners and later the Detroit lions Steve Owens! what
talent in one School.  well the I had a million questions to ask poor Dave
and he answered all he could and told me about Steve's band the Ravens and
he said they played the roller rink in Joplin MO. I also talked with Larry
Gower and Judy mclin Snodderly and they were both very nice. I also have a
good friend that lives and plays in Memphis named Tommy Cathy who told me
back in the 70's he knew cassie from her going to school at Memphis State.
Bobby said at one time all of you lived in Memphis. Anyway she kept telling
all the local guitar players about her brother. Tommy said that one weekend
Steve came in to town and they jammed all night. He said that Steve was a
mind blower and along with Cassie was one of the nicest people that he had
ever met. well I just say that Steve is the reason that I play guitar and He
was a star that Burned bright for a while then was gone. But know through
the website we can keep his music alive. God bless you and yours.

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By the way...you probably heard this a million times....but a real shame
for the loss...the band was a real foundation layer for music. I'm 36 and I
do d.j. work now for over 21 years. When I play a venue, these days its all
this new modern dance music. When I feel I've had enough, I slip in an old
Skynryd tune and the best part is when someone 20 years old or so comes up
to me and asks me "what was that song you played earlier?" When I show them
the cd and point out how many other BIG songs there were, there amazed
because they've never even heard of the band. Ha Ha.....like I said many
times.....a lot of the good music was before our time and unfortunately
today were plagued with bands like Backstreet Boys and the likes that have
no substance or longevity. If there isn't such a thing, there should be a
video produced on the history of the band for all to see and learn about
one of the pioneers of rock music. By the way, tell the current band....it
was a great show last Friday night at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario
Canada. Was great to see a piece of rock history in real life. All the
best!
Dan

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What a cool sight I am touched as the memories come flooding back like
yesterday
Andy

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I know you get these all the time, and I'm not old enough to remember Steve
Gaines, but his music still lives on. I am a 21 year old drummer and Lynyrd
Skynyrd is my all time favorite band. Steve Gaines will always be
remembered as the best guitar player for the all time greatest band in the
history of music.

Always a friend,
Willis J. Roberson

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I AM SO IMPRESSED AT YOUR WEB SITE! IT IS UPDATED
AND INFORMATIVE HAVE REALLY ENJOYED VISITING
THIS SITE AND WILL LOOK FORWARD TO RETURNING.
YOUR BROTHERS MUSIC HAS ALWAYS MEANT A LOT
TO ME THROUGHOUT MY LIFE. I WAS ALWAYS A SKYNYRD
FAN BUT ALSO I HAVE SOME OF HIS WHEN HE WAS IN CRAW-
DAD  THE ONE SONG THAT MOVES ME TO TEARS IS ''ONE IN
THE SUN'' EVEN NOW. THANK YOU FOR DEVOTING YOUR TIME
TO HELP EVERYONE HEAL.

JULIE

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Hello, this photograph of Steve with "Crawdad" was taken by my late brother,
Leroy Cox, at "The Ranch" in Galena, Kansas in 1976.

 Leroy could play a
pretty mean guitar, too. Steve was his friend and his idol. I like to think
they're jammin' up there. Thanks just wanted to share. Karen Shea,
Miami,Oklahoma     P.S.I have 2 more photos to send. One of "Crawdad" the
same night and one of Steve's brother,Bob,trying to hide from the camera!
That poor lady!!

Here are the other two photos. Karen Shea Miami, Oklahoma.

Pat Shea

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Howdy,
     Just like everybody else...I would like to say how much the music has
got me through the years...I saw everybody down in Daytona...what a night to
remember!!...If there is anything I can do to help out....I'm a Senior Chief
Petty Officer in the Navy, and I'm stationed on NAS Jacksonville. I take a
couple of buddies from the Navy and we go to the cemetery to clean up around
the grave sites and have kept an eye out after the terrible thing that
happened last year.  I know it may sound a little morbid...but we do it out
of the love of the music and what they all gave to us in return with it!
Thanks for all that you guy's do..........and keep up the web site....It's
Awesome.

ADCS Gary J. Owens, USN

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My name is Mikey, and I'm 19 years old in Jacksonville, Florida. I was
brought up Thankfully on Lynyrd Skynyrd's music, and am going to pass this
music on down generation to generation! I work @ the Publix on Roosevelt
Blvd. and have the Pleasure of seeing Billy Powell and Family every now
and then! I would just like to say if I could, Thank GOODNESS for Lynyrd
Skynyrd!! I Love Them, my Family Loves them, and a BUNCH of my friend's
Love them! The SteveGaines.com site is so cool. There are photos there I
NEVER thought I'd see, and I think it's cool that there are Lynyrd Skynyrd
sites around! Well I'll letcha go now.. just thought I'd get out what I've
been holdin' in about Skynyrd!!

Long Live Lynyrd Skynyrd!!!

Mikey

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I'am 51 years old, and was there from the start. Steve's infulence can denfinately be heard on "STREET SURVIVORS". Just thinking of all we lost including the music. Fills my eyes with tears. I will never forget any of them.

 Larry, from Memphis, TN.

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  Greetings from new york!
   Just found the Steve Gaines web site on the Skynyrd
web ring. Awsome stuff. I'm sorry, but it makes me
cry,man. Skynyrd has been part of my life for almost
30 years. I was fortunate enough to see the band on
halloween night in 1976 at the Utica N.Y. Aud. for the
One More From the Road tour. We were up close(festival
seating back then) and I remember seening Steve play.
Always been a fan and always will be. Think about the
ones who are gone all the time. Skynyrd still rules
and we always have Skynyrd tunes at our parties! My
son is a 19 year old guitar player and he grew up on
Skynyrd and Steve.( I have an old cassete of One in
the Sun.)Steves cover of It's Alright is awsome. So
thats my thoughts. Steve will always be remembered!
Here is a pic of my son Chris playin' with Danny
Morris at the Dinosaur b-b-q in Syracuse.

       thanks, mike tee

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just found your website. saw the last lynyrd skynyrd concert when i was
living in davie,fl. it was at the hollywood sportatorium in pembroke
pines,fl. sorry that it was to be their last concert,as the plane crashed
before making it to their last gig. it was a great concert,with steve giving
good licks with allen  and gary. always remember the smoke filled concert
nite when they played gimme back my bullets. taught myself drums starting at
the age of 10,and always enjoyed playing the skynyrd tunes. my most cherished
pictures are of allen collins,gary rossington,and artimus standing outside of
the wshe studios after an interview they gave. lost a friend to a shooting
who played in our band. he was a great guitar player,and skynyrd songs were
our favorites. am sure there is a rock n' roll heaven,and steve,cassie,and
those who perished in the crash will be jamming on forever. god bless you and
yours,and power to the flight of the freebird. john in port st lucie,fl

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I am glad there is finally some music that I can buy of Steve and Cassie. I am an avid record collector and have not been able to find anything of Steve and Cassie. I would love to have the Okie Special.

Thank you for putting this music together for every fan of Steve and Cassie.

Gwen Partain

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Excellent webpage folks!  I am a 24 year old college student living in
St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada and I have been a southern rock fan for
most of my life.  I just discovered this site tonight and let me say I
have shed a tear or two viewing the contents.  A great site and Cassie and
Steve will always be with us.  The best to all of you!
Donald Hanhams
St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
P.S.- I only wish I could see Skynryd live but they don't tour here often.
Thanks

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Thank you for maintaining your beautiful web site. The pictures and comments
were great! I am planning a trip to FLA and will be spending time in
Jacksonville. I would like to visit as many sites with any Skynyrd
influences as I could. Where is the "RVZ Memorial Park", and where and when
is the Freebird Festival? Keep up the good work (Keeping the memories alive)
Dean Combs in Indy

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Hello to the entire Gaines family.  I have been a fan of Skynyrd and of
Steve's music since I was around 14 (a while ago now).  To Steve's parents,
I unfortunately know your pain.  I lost my daughter, Aleia, in 1994 when she
was almost 17 years old.  A drunk driver took her life (PLEASE don't drink
and drive).  Teresa, I admire your courage and conviction for continuing on
as you have.  I don't know how you continued on as I would find it
unbearable to be without my other half!  Each of you will always be in my
prayers.
I'm going to pick up copies of every thing from Steve that I don't have.  I
truly enjoy his playing, lyrical qualities and his work with Skynyrd.  Keep
up the good work and may God Bless you!

Brian Anderson

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 Just a short note to say thanks for taking your time to build this site for
you and for us fans. God Bless to you and your family.

  Mark Morse

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       Hello! I´m a spanish boy, my name is Jorge (George), I´m 18 years
old. I love Lynyrd Skynyrd and i feel like a one more of the skynyrd´s
family,i want to give cogratulations for you, thanks for be here each day.
Today i feel blue because my girlfirend left me but it no matters.(excuse
for my english).Well, i would like that you write me soon. Well, thanks a
lot.

                                                 Kisses

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hi, i just want to take the time to express my feelings about this website.
This web site is so exellent, it keeps the epirit of Steve Gaines alive as
well as the other founding fathers of Lynyrd Skynyrd that are no longer with
us.  This site has exellent pictures, just looking at them expresses the true
feelings o fthe person, pictures of Steve with his daughter are so great.
Pictures of Steve with Lynyrd Skynyrd are some of the best, Lynyrd Skynyrd is
a band of such beautiful amazing people. Ronnie Van Zant, Allen Collins,
Steve and Cassie Gaines are always in my prayers. There music has inspired me
so much, when ever i hear free bird I cant help but to shed a tear knowing
that they are no longer with us.  Fly on Free Bird, Your Free at Last!
                 May the spirit of the Lynyrd Skynyrd members that are with
us and no longer remain free and proud.  " If I leave here tomorrow, would
you still remember me?" Believe me, not a day has gone by that I have ever
forgotten any members of Lynyrd Skynyrd.  
                                    We love and miss you!      
                                                        From, Pat

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Growing up in Mudville (Miami,Ok) was quite an experience.  I would have to
say that one of my favorite memories of Steve was the Christmas dance at
Miami High School 1975.  Crawdad was the band and I have to say they were
definitely on that night, but you never saw that band when they weren't
smokin.  To all you folks out there who only got to see Steve for the short
amount of time that he was with Skynyrd, I can say you were blessed, but
those of us who grew up in Miami had the experience of a lifetime, because we
heard Steve for many years.  I don't believe anyone who knew Steve will ever
get over the loss, but we have memories, of both Steve and Cassie.  Thanks
for all of the great work Teresa.  

Redbud Slim.(JSR)

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Hello,
    I just saw the ad, on Steve, in Blues Revue.
I met, and befriended, Steve before he joined Lynyrd Skynyrd.I played in a
band and booked a small club near Bryan, Ohio.  I believe that it was
1973,although it may have been 1974.
   I booked the band.... Detroit, for a New Years Eve gig. My band opened
and the arrangement was made through DMA booking agency.
    I spent a good deal of time ,with Steve, in the dressing
room. Laughing and enjoying life in our own way.....we had ,what I always
considered, a memorable time.
   I remember the boogies he sang. He wore an old leather hat and had
patched over jeans on.
Rusty Day was the lead singer. I really didn't spend much time with the
other band members.
Steve and I just hung out. I booked them back for a gig on Easter
Sunday, a few months later.
Then the next time I saw Steve was in a magazine w/Skynyrd.  I was always
so happy that he made it. He was so deserving.........
I wish I would have gotten a chance to tell him so. I am glad, that I have
this opportunity to share with his loved ones. I will never forget
him. God bless ....

sincerely,Davey Farrell

*********************

I first noticed  stevegaines.com about 3months ago.  I was actually
shocked when I seen it.  It was totally by accident.  I am too young to
remember Skynyrd in their prime,  the crash was the year I was born.  I
know, I was robbed.  I love Lynyrd Skynyrd. Their music was, is and will
always be priceless.  You can't take that away.  I didn't really know
much about Skynyrd until VH1 aired Freebird.   
I have always been a
Skynyrd fan, but Freebird gave me the fax you know.  I bought
SoloFlytes, I didn't even know that Steve sang until I heard One In The
Sun.  I will tell you that the song literally pulled the tears from my
eyes.  I never heard the song before in my life, but when I heard that
song, Steve was singing exactly what I was going through at the time.  I
love Steve Gaines man, his music and his aura, the way he was,  I can
tell he was so suttle and calm.  People just don't give enough credit to
some musicians.  You know some people want to go back in time for their
own reasons, but if I went back in time it would be to meet Steve
Gaines

*********************

Teresa, 

I love the website. 

I had tears in my eyes after seeing it. It was so
long ago that tragedy struck and took Steve and the others from us. I was so
young then and yet I felt so heart struck when I saw the website. I had tears
in my eyes. I was planning to go to a concert later in the year with some
friends of mine, when I came home one evening, close to the day of the show,
and my step father told me the band I loved had been involved in a plane
crash and that some of the band members had been killed. I couldn't believe
what I was hearing. I later seen the report on the local news and I cried. I
went over to a dear friends house and we listened to the bands one more from
the road album over and over. I can't believe it still touches me so deeply
after all these years. I was only a kid back then, but life goes on, I am a
broadcast engineer now. I still listen to Skynyrd a lot and remember when. I
am a guitar player and I believe the guitarist were hurt the most by the loss
of Steve and the others. Every band I ever played with loved Skynyrd, and
still does. The music is unique and full of heart. I only play for fun these
days, but I will always remember Steve Gaines and the band forever.

Brothers In Arms Forever,
bippylee

*********************

Hello Teresa.  

On July 4th, 1977,  I attended my first concert.  It was at the Oakland Coliseum in Oakland CA.  I was 14 years old and had just moved to northern California from southern California and my father gave me two tickets to a concert billed as "A DAY ON THE GREEN", to help lift my low spirits due to the move.

  Headlining the show were LYNYRD SKYNYRD and Peter Frampton.  Not knowing what to expect, my friend and I entered the stadium nervously but excitedly, soaking in this new world we had discovered.  Knowing nothing about concert behavior, we bulled our way to the barrier that separated the crowd from the stage and staked our claim to the spot.  I was going to see, up close, my favorite band, LYNYRD SKYNYRD. 

 I endured the three or four opening acts smashed between drunk, sweaty masses of people a foot taller than myself, broiling in the hot July sun while the smell of pot ,whiskey and vomit seemed to engulf me.  I held my ground  and was rewarded by being able to look into the eyes of my heroes as they played.  That day changed my life forever and inspired me to become a musician, which I have been ever since. 

 Twenty-three years later I point myself out to my children when I appear in the crowd during "FREEBIRD" in the movie FREEBIRD, THE MOVIE,  and tell them that's when I became a "WHISKEY ROCK AND ROLLER."  My heart broke when the plane went down and to this day I still feel that loss as do you I'm sure.  Steve and Cassie are in my prayers and I will forever thank them for July 4th, 1977. 

 Greg Denig, Atlanta,GA.  

*********************

Hello,

My name is David Ouellete, and I am a HUGE Lynyrd Skynyrd fan. Not only a fan of the music, but of the men themselves...I am 17 years old, and I think it's a shame that more young people don't have an appreciation for good music anymore, and go with what's trendy for the month. I am lucky to have a father who was a big Lynyrd Skynyrd fan, and he introduced me to their music at an early age, and I have been hooked ever since......there music moves me as I'm sure it does many others, never before in my 17 years, have a heard a more talented group of musicians come together and arise such strong feelings in so many people, myself included....I only wish that I could have had the honor to see them live. I recently purchased the Street Survivor album, and prior to that, I thought that Ronnie van Zant was a singer that stood alone, and who would overcome another vocalist with his talent, but I can honestly say that Steve Gaines' vocals along side of Ronnie's (in you got that right) was the prefect blend of voices. I thank you for creating a such a nice
tribute to Steve and Cassie. I am anxious to wear the shirt with pride in September when school starts.
Thank You all so very much, and keep up the excellent work on the page.

David Ouellette

*********************

hi there Teresa; my name is Frenchy MacKay, 
I have been a huge Skynyrd fan
since the early 70's, Steve Gaines has been 
a big influence on my guitar
playing, in fact Lynyrd Skynyrd  is the reason
 I started playing guitar, I've
always loved to play their
music, in short Steve and the boy's 
have been a big part of my everyday life
and it would be a great honor to receive 
your letter I'm really looking
forward to it, thank you so much for creating 
this web site of Steve, it's
really nice to know that we can come here 
and pay tribute to one of the best
guitarists that ever walked the face of the earth, 
we miss you so much Steve.

*********************

I was lucky enough to see one of Steve and Cassie's 
last shows, at the Hollywood Sportatorium in Hollywood Florida. 
It was a concert i will never forget, Skynyrd set
a Florida indoor attendance record. Ronnie came out before the show t
o thank everyone for coming.  Steve's singing and guitar playing was just incredible.
There isn't a day that goes by that  I do not think about that concert and just
how much Steve added to Lynyrd Skynyrd.  
Steve and the band inspired me to learn how to play the guitar myself.

                 Thanks for the great website Teresa and Corrina.

     Craig Dankers  

*********************

Just saw your website and remember the 
gang when they used to practice at
Allen's house. by the way, Allenwas my cousin.
my best memory of Steve was when he tought
me to play "I Know A Little". I was playing with
Rum Creek at the time. just wanted to tell ya
that us good ole boys haven't forgotten those
that we have loved and lost!!! keep the memories 
alive by keeping sites
like this.

 love ya all
  Mike Collins

*********************

I first got into the band in 1973 but due to my military obligations I could not see the band live until my discharge in 1977 at the Anaheim stadium in California. What a hoot that was! The band traveled to Europe with me via 8 track tape. They were in Europe with me probably before they even went! I was pretty much devastated after hearing about the
crash, That was a low point in my life. But ill tell you what That boy could make that ax talk! God bless. 
Norton

*********************

Dear Teresa,

Thanks for opening up your heart and sharing your memories with us.  I've been a Skynyrd fan since '73.  Now pushing 40.  I was so moved by the
pictures of the birthday party for Corrina that I had to collect my thoughts.  As I once told Judy V. Jenness, my Mom and Dad surprised me with
a copy of "Street Survivors" album for my 17th birthday---- October 18th, 1977.  Two days later Steve and Cassie's plane went down.  I've said this
before but right at that moment I heard the news I went from teenager to young man.  It was pretty tough to take.  A buddy of mine and I wore that
album out as well as the 8-track.  23 years later, I'm wearing out the CD. Thanks to Steve, Ronnie, Cassie, and the rest of Skynyrd I have a gift from
them that can be played anytime.  Your husband's music was a huge part of my life.  He was a shooting star that never has burned out.  It's funny how I can listen to "Street Survivors" and 23 years is just wiped away clean.

I can remember those times like it was yesterday.  All of the great times and the tough times and, man, what I wouldn't trade now to be 17 again.  But we all know we can't go back.  We try and accept and move on.  I've played guitar for almost 30 years now.  Know the Skynyrd stuff by heart.  I plan on teaching my boys, Jake and Justin, to play someday.   

So although I never had the chance to say thanks or goodbye to those lost on that fateful day, I'll say thanks through you, Judy, Corrina, and Melody.

Thanks for allowing the fans to enjoy your kindness and your memories.

Take Care and God Bless,

Jim Lalumondier

*********************

Teresa,

I remember Steve Gaines' first concert in KC.  He kept his head down most of the time.  Probably a little stage fright but man he could play that guitar.  I paid about $11.00 for the show.  Amazing.  I remember "T for Texas" but I
also remember him trading licks with Allen Collins throughout the show.  I always thought that the Skynyrd sound from Street Survivors would turn the band in a new direction.  I'm pushing 40 and the pain of losing Ronnie, Steve, Cassie, and Dean has eased somewhat but not much. 

Thanks for allowing the fans of their music to enjoy this website.

Sincerely,

Jim Lalumondier

*********************

Hello, 
I was looking at your site and wanted to let you know that I saw Steve perform at Rich Stadium in Buffalo, New York in the summer of 1977. It was a show that still to this day has burned into my memory. Skynyrd performed in front of a sold out football stadium (Home of the Buffalo Bills) and ripped through a performance with intensity that drove the crowd crazy. It was certainly an event in my life that I will never forget.

Mike
Sims-Syracuse, New
York

please send us your own personal memories of seeing Steve and Cassie

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