Second Helping- The Original Lynyrd Skynyrd Show
Sat, March 7, 2026 at 8:00 PM EST
Second Helping: The Original Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Show is the longest-running national Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute in the world. They are dedicated to bringing Skynyrd music to you as
you remember it.
Second Helping began in 1988 in Jacksonville, Florida. Second Helping guitarist Chris McCallister was invited by his friend Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King to a rehearsal at the
Lynyrd Skynyrd rehearsal studio located at Larkin Collins’ office. During the rehearsal, Chris asked the members how long they planned to continue touring. Various Skynyrd members
responded, “Just this year as a tribute to our fans,” Chris replied, “What? Someone ought to do a tribute to you guys!” At that point, some Skynyrd members, especially Gary Rossington,
laughed. Rossington said to McCallister, “What, like Beatlemania?” McCallister was embarrassed because Rossington, in fun, began teasing him. McCallister returned home
(Clearwater) and started writing a tribute show to honor Lynyrd Skynyrd. The result was the first-ever national tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd. Since 1988, Second Helping has worked with a
few of the Skynyrd guitarists on parts of songs.
Soon thereafter, Second Helping began selling out shows statewide in Florida. Second Helping was listed as one of JAM magazine’s top bands in Florida. Booking agent Richard Lustig signed
the band around 1989, and they began touring the United States, Canada, and Mexico immediately. The band’s popularity soared after appearing on MTV. The concert was a benefit
for Chris Oliva, former guitarist for Savatage. The band, by 1989, had reached national attention and has enjoyed its success ever since.
In 2023, the current Lynyrd Skynyrd lead singer, Johnny Van Zant, said, “I want to wish Second Helping a happy 35 th Anniversary. Thanks for keeping that Skynyrd music alive. You’ve been
doing it for a long time. Guys, we appreciate ya!”
Second Helping is more than a tribute band; it showcases classic Skynyrd music. Expect an evening that will bring you back to a time of youth, fun, and hope.
