William Norris Powell  (Billy) (1952 - 2009)

William Norris Powell  (Billy)

Billy Powell was born in Corpus Christi Texas, he spent some of his childhood in Italy, where his naval officer father was stationed. At the age of nine, his father died so the family returned to the USA. He was obviously best known for being the Piano and Keyboard player of Southern Boogie rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Originally as their roadie, he was later asked to join the band after his rendition of FreeBird was heard. During his time with Lynyrd Skynyrd he played on tracks such as 'Sweet Home Alabama'. He was a survivor of the bands tragic Aeroplane crash in 1977 where band members Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines & Cassie Gaines lost their lives. Billy was an integral part of the line-up when the band reformed in the late 80s (fronted by Johnny Van Zant - Ronnie's younger brother). The re-formed band was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (in March 2006). . . . .Billy had an existing heart complaint, but sadly died aged 56 on 28-Jan-09 when he phoned the paramedics due to breathing difficulties, when they reached his home in Orange Park Florida it was too late for them to save him.

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