Posted April 3, 2023 by: Admin #News

Legendary musician Peter Frampton took to the stage at the 2023 CMT Music Awards in Austin, Texas on Sunday to introduce a tribute performance honoring the late Gary Rossington, co-founder of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Rossington passed away on March 5 at the age of 71.

Frampton, who had previously announced his retirement from touring in 2019 due to his diagnosis of inclusion body myositis, a degenerative muscle disorder, appeared in good spirits as he stood with a cane and paid tribute to his friend and tourmate. “Gary Rossington was a southern rock icon and an original founding member of our beloved group, Lynyrd Skynyrd,” said the 72-year-old rock icon. “He inspired millions of fans and musicians. He’s now joined his fellow Skynyrd bandmates in rock and roll heaven, but we will all enjoy their music forever.”

Following Frampton’s introduction, a star-studded lineup including Cody Johnson, Billy Gibbons, Paul Rodgers, Slash, Chuck Leavell, Warren Haynes, Wynonna Judd, and LeAnn Rimes took to the stage and performed Lynyrd Skynyrd classics “Simple Man” and “Sweet Home Alabama” in honor of Rossington.

In February 2019, Frampton announced his retirement from touring and informed fans of his diagnosis of inclusion body myositis. Despite this, he has continued to play shows and even noted some progress in his condition. “It’s starting to affect my arms and my hands a little bit, but it’s not affecting my playing to a great deal, so I’m still enjoying playing,” he said in an interview with PEOPLE.

The 2023 CMT Music Awards were broadcast live from the Moody Center on April 2 on CBS and Paramount+. Lynyrd Skynyrd shared a statement on their Facebook page following Rossington’s passing, asking fans to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. “Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does,” they wrote.