Lynyrd Skynyrd
That Smell
"That Smell" is a song by the American Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. Written by lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Allen Collins, the song was released in 1977 on the band's fifth studio album, Street Survivors. The track has become one of the band's signature songs, known for its gritty commentary on substance abuse and its tragic premonitions.
"That Smell" was penned by Ronnie Van Zant and Allen Collins. The song was released in October 1977, just three days before a plane crash claimed the lives of Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, among others. This event heavily impacted the band's trajectory and added a haunting context to the song's lyrics.
The song is featured on the album Street Survivors, which reached number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart. Although "That Smell" itself did not chart as a single, the album is one of Lynyrd Skynyrd's most acclaimed works, partly due to the eerie timing of its release and the subsequent plane crash.
"That Smell" has been used in various TV shows and movies, often to underscore themes of addiction or self-destruction. Some notable appearances include the TV series Supernatural and the films Blow and Joe Dirt. The song’s inclusion in such media highlights its lasting impact and the universality of its cautionary message.
The lyrics of "That Smell" are a stark warning against the dangers of substance abuse. Van Zant wrote the song in response to the increasing drug and alcohol problems within the band, particularly targeting guitarist Gary Rossington, who had survived a serious car crash while under the influence. The opening lines, "Whiskey bottles, and brand new cars / Oak tree, you're in my way," directly reference this incident.
The chorus, "Ooh, that smell / Can't you smell that smell? / Ooh, that smell / The smell of death surrounds you," conveys a sense of foreboding and the inescapability of the consequences of addiction. Van Zant's direct and poignant lyrics reflect his growing frustration and concern for his bandmates' well-being.
The recording of Street Survivors was marked by tension due to the band's escalating substance abuse issues. Despite these challenges, the album was completed and stands as a testament to the band's resilience. The haunting premonitions in "That Smell" gained a chilling resonance after the plane crash, leading many fans to interpret the song as an eerie prediction of the band's fate.
The plane crash that followed the album's release cast a shadow over "That Smell" and Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy. The original album cover, which featured the band surrounded by flames, was quickly replaced out of respect for the deceased members and their families. This tragedy and the song's dark themes have made "That Smell" a subject of intense scrutiny and interpretation over the years.
Several artists have covered "That Smell," showcasing its enduring influence. Bands like The Drive-By Truckers and Gov't Mule have included the song in their live performances, paying homage to Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy. Each cover brings a unique perspective to the song while preserving its core message.
In interviews, surviving band members have reflected on "That Smell" with a mixture of pride and sorrow. Gary Rossington has often spoken about how the song was a wake-up call for him, emphasizing Van Zant's role as the band's moral compass. Rossington's reflections add depth to the song's meaning, highlighting its role in the band's internal dynamics and its impact on their personal lives.
Allen Collins, co-writer of the song, also faced his struggles with substance abuse, making "That Smell" a poignant reminder of the battles fought within the band. The song's raw honesty and Van Zant's unflinching lyrics continue to resonate with fans, serving as a powerful testament to the dangers of addiction.
"That Smell" by Lynyrd Skynyrd is more than just a song; it is a somber reflection on the perils of substance abuse and a haunting premonition of the tragedy that would soon befall the band. Its cultural impact, memorable lyrics, and the stories behind its creation have cemented its place in rock history. As a cautionary tale, it remains relevant, echoing the timeless struggle against addiction and the quest for redemption.