**Concert Review: The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour - Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and The Outlaws at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts**
- Scott Kucharski
- Aug 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Southern Rock Legends Make Stop At Historic Bethel Woods On Their 50th Anniversary Tour With Co-headliners ZZ Top.
On a perfect summer night in the historic Catskill Mountains, over 11,000 fans gathered at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts to witness a true celebration of Southern rock and roll. The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour, featuring the legendary Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and The Outlaws, delivered a night of timeless music, nostalgia, and pure rock energy.
The evening kicked off with The Outlaws, who set the tone with their blend of Southern rock and country. Their performance of classic hits like "There Goes Another Love Song" and "Green Grass and High Tides" brought the crowd back to the 1970s, capturing the spirit of an era where guitar jams reigned supreme. The band's rendition of "(Ghost) Riders in the Sky" was particularly powerful, showcasing their ability to weave storytelling into their music. The Outlaws proved to be the perfect warm-up for what was to come.
ZZ Top took the stage next, and while their slot before sunset felt slightly unconventional, the "Little Ol' Band from Texas" wasted no time in making their presence known.
With Frank Beard and Billy Gibbons leading the charge, along with new bassist Elwood Francis, who has seamlessly stepped into the role after the passing of Dusty Hill, the band delivered a set that was both fun and memorable. Opening with "Got Me Under Pressure," Francis’ 17-string bass—an instrument born out of a joke—added a touch of humor and spectacle to the show. ZZ Top’s set was a hit parade, featuring crowd favorites like "Legs," "Sharp Dressed Man," and "La Grange." While the performance may not have always been the tightest; the relaxed, jam-session vibe made the set feel like a laid-back party with old friends.
But the night truly belonged to Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Southern rock icons who have been celebrating the 50th anniversary of their debut album ‘Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd’ throughout 2023.
The current lineup, featuring Johnny Van Zant, Rickey Medlocke, and Michael Cartellone, among others, took the stage with the authority of a band that knows its place in rock history. Starting strong with "Working for MCA," the band had the crowd on their feet from the first note, delivering a setlist that was a journey through their storied career. Tracks like "What's Your Name," "That Smell," and "Simple Man" resonated deeply with the multi-generational audience, each song a reminder of the band's enduring legacy.
A standout moment was the collaboration with Billy Gibbons on "Call Me the Breeze," a performance that felt like a true meeting of Southern rock royalty. The night culminated with the much-anticipated "Free Bird," a song that has become more than just a hit—it's an anthem, a symbol of freedom and defiance that perfectly encapsulates Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy. The crowd’s response was nothing short of electric, as the band delivered the iconic guitar solo with all the fire and passion it deserves.
In conclusion, The Sharp Dressed Simple Man Tour at Bethel Woods was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of rock history. Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and The Outlaws each brought their unique flavor to the stage, creating a night that honored the past while still feeling vibrant and alive. For those who attended, it was a reminder of why these bands have remained so beloved for decades, and for the artists, it was a chance to reconnect with the fans who have kept their music alive.
