Gimme Three Steps – Lynyrd Skynyrd (Live)
On August 21, 1976, Lynyrd Skynyrd took the stage at Knebworth as part of a daylong festival which also included Todd Rundgren’s Utopia, 10cc and The Rolling Stones. The show has gone down in Lynyrd Skynyrd history as one of the band’s greatest performances. The 1976 Knebworth show features Ronnie Van Zant’s iconic vocals and their famed triple guitar attack of Gary Rossington, Allen Collins and Steve Gaines in front of a crowd estimated between 150,000 and 200,000. Their entire performance from that day is here for you to witness the classic Lynyrd Skynyrd in all its glory with cleaned up visuals and remixed audio, available on DVD+CD, Blu-ray+CD and DVD+2LP.
“Gimme Three Steps” by Lynyrd Skynyrd is a classic Southern rock song released in 1973 on their debut album (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd). The track, driven by bluesy guitar riffs and a steady rhythm, tells a humorous, semi-autobiographical story of a man caught in a barroom confrontation. It captures Skynyrd’s signature blend of gritty storytelling, Southern swagger, and musical craftsmanship.
The lyrics recount an incident in which the narrator is dancing with a girl named Linda Lou at a bar called The Jug when her jealous boyfriend suddenly appears, furious. The man, described as “a big, mean-looking man named Leroy,” threatens the narrator with a .44 pistol. In a moment of panic and self-preservation, the narrator pleads not for mercy, but for a chance to leave—specifically asking, “gimme three steps toward the door.” This blend of wit, fear, and clever negotiation adds a comedic twist to an otherwise tense situation.
Musically, the song stands out with its driving guitar work, catchy hooks, and infectious energy. The interplay between Gary Rossington and Allen Collins on guitar sets the tone for what would become a defining sound of Lynyrd Skynyrd: a dual guitar attack with Southern blues roots and rock intensity. Ronnie Van Zant’s vocals are clear, confident, and full of character, bringing the scene to life with his storytelling style.
“Gimme Three Steps” helped cement Lynyrd Skynyrd’s identity as more than just a Southern band—it showcased their ability to spin everyday trouble into memorable rock narratives. While it’s not as politically or emotionally heavy as some of their other songs like “Simple Man” or “Tuesday’s Gone,” it resonates with fans because of its honesty, humor, and raw musicality. It remains a staple in classic rock playlists and a fan favorite at live shows.
