“That Smell” is a song by Lynyrd Skynyrd from their 1977 album Street Survivors. Here’s a detailed look at the song:
Details
- Album: Street Survivors (1977)
- Writers: Ronnie Van Zant and Allen Collins
- Genre: Southern rock
- Length: 5:47
Background and Meaning
“That Smell” was written by lead singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Allen Collins. The song addresses the dangers of substance abuse, reflecting the personal struggles and experiences of the band members with drugs and alcohol at the time. The lyrics serve as a warning, with a recurring line that says, “Ooh, that smell, can’t you smell that smell?”
Musical Style
The song features:
- Guitars: Prominent guitar work typical of Lynyrd Skynyrd, with a combination of lead and rhythm guitars creating a layered sound.
- Vocals: Ronnie Van Zant’s powerful and gritty voice delivering the poignant lyrics.
- Rhythm Section: A solid rhythm section that provides a steady backbone for the song.
Notable Lyrics
The lyrics of “That Smell” are a stark warning about the consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. Some notable lines include:
- “Whiskey bottles, and brand new cars / Oak tree you’re in my way”
- “Angel of darkness is upon you / Stuck a needle in your arm”
- “The smell of death surrounds you”
Reception
“That Smell” is considered one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s classic songs. Despite its dark subject matter, it remains a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances. The song’s release on Street Survivors was followed by the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of several band members, including Ronnie Van Zant. This gave the song an even more poignant and haunting legacy.
