Lynyrd Skynyrd - That Smell -

: Van Zant used this nickname for Rossington in the lyrics as a pointed jab at his friend's reckless behavior. 2. Metaphors of Mortality

: This opening line directly references Rossington’s crash. Lynyrd Skynyrd - That Smell

The lyrics were primarily inspired by a 1976 car accident involving guitarist Gary Rossington. While under the influence, Rossington crashed his brand-new Ford Torino into a telephone pole and an oak tree in Jacksonville, Florida. : Van Zant used this nickname for Rossington

: At the time, Van Zant reportedly felt a "creepy feeling" that things were turning against the band, leading him to write what he described as a "morbid song". 3. Prophetic Tragedy Florida. : At the time