Larry Junstrom: The Legendary Bassist of Southern Rock

A Founding Member of Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special

Larry Junstrom was a renowned American bassist, best known for his contributions to the iconic southern rock bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special. With a career spanning over four decades, Junstrom left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him a spot among the most revered bassists of all time.

A Humble Beginning

Born on June 22, 1949, in Jacksonville, Florida, Junstrom's passion for music was ignited at an early age. He grew up surrounded by the rich musical heritage of the South, which would later influence his unique style. Junstrom's early life was marked by a deep appreciation for rock, blues, and country music, laying the foundation for his future success.

The Rise to Fame with Lynyrd Skynyrd

In 1964, Junstrom joined forces with Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and Bob Burns to form Lynyrd Skynyrd, one of the most influential southern rock bands of all time. As the band's original bassist, Junstrom played a pivotal role in shaping their distinctive sound, which blended rock, blues, and country elements. During his tenure with Lynyrd Skynyrd, the band released several critically acclaimed albums, including "(Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd)" and "Second Helping."

A New Chapter with .38 Special

In 1977, Junstrom joined .38 Special, a band founded by Donnie Van Zant, Ronnie's younger brother. As the band's bassist, Junstrom contributed to their unique blend of southern rock, pop, and arena rock. .38 Special's hits like "Hold On Loosely," "Caught Up in You," and "Fantasy Girl" became staples of the 1980s rock scene. Junstrom's tenure with .38 Special spanned over three decades, until his retirement in 2014.

A Passion for Amateur Radio

Aside from his music career, Junstrom was an avid amateur radio operator, holding the call sign K4EB, which translates to "Known 4 Excellent Bass." This unique hobby showcased his creative spirit and technical skills, further emphasizing his commitment to excellence.

Awards and Accolades

Throughout his illustrious career, Junstrom received numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination for .38 Special's album "Tour de Force" in 1984. He was also inducted into the Florida Music Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing his significant contributions to the state's rich musical heritage.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from .38 Special in 2014 due to a hand injury, Junstrom continued to remain active in the music scene. He passed away on October 5, 2019, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of iconic music and memories.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Junstrom's bass playing style was heavily influenced by Paul McCartney and John Entwistle.
• He was known for his versatility, playing a wide range of genres, from rock to country to blues.
• Junstrom's favorite bass guitar was a 1964 Fender Precision Bass.
• He was close friends with fellow southern rock legend, Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers Band.

A Lasting Impact on Southern Rock

Larry Junstrom's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of southern rock. As a founding member of Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special, he helped shape the genre's distinctive sound and style. Through his passion for music and his dedication to excellence, Junstrom has inspired generations of musicians and fans alike, cementing his place as one of the most revered bassists in rock history.