Edward Calhoun King (September 14, 1949 – August 22, 2018) was an American musician. He was a guitarist for the psychedelic rock band Strawberry Alarm Clock and guitarist and bassist for the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd from 1972 to 1975, and again from 1987 to 1996.
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4:09Ed King
The guitar-driven legacy of Ed King is a testament to the enduring power of American rock music. For nearly three decades, King's distinctive playing style brought depth and nuance to two of the most iconic bands of their era: Strawberry Alarm Clock and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Through his work with these groups, King played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of psychedelic rock and Southern rock, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
One clip from DeepCutsArchive's extensive collection showcases King's early tenure with Strawberry Alarm Clock during their heyday in the late 1960s. In "Incense and Peppermints (Live at Fillmore East)" (1968), King's guitar work is front and center, providing a swirling, psychedelic backdrop for the band's signature hit. The clip captures the essence of the era's counterculture movement, with King's playing style reflecting the experimental spirit of the time.
King's departure from Strawberry Alarm Clock in 1972 marked a new chapter in his career, as he joined Lynyrd Skynyrd, one of the most influential bands to emerge from the Southern rock scene. With Lynyrd Skynyrd, King brought his unique guitar sound to some of the band's most beloved songs, including "Gimme Three Steps" and "One More Time." A clip from DeepCutsArchive features King's performance on "Comin' Home (Live at the Fox Theatre)" (1974), where he trades licks with fellow guitarist Gary Rossington. The chemistry between the two guitarists is palpable, as they weave a rich tapestry of sound that has become synonymous with Lynyrd Skynyrd's signature style.
King's tenure with Lynyrd Skynyrd was marked by both creative highs and personal struggles. Despite his departure from the band in 1975, King returned to Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1987, bringing a renewed sense of purpose to the group. During this period, he contributed to several albums, including "Southern By The Grace Of God" (1993) and "Twenty" (1997). A clip from DeepCutsArchive showcases King's performance on "The Ballad of Curtis Loew (Live at the Fox Theatre)" (1994), where his guitar work adds a poignant touch to this Lynyrd Skynyrd classic.
Throughout his career, Ed King's playing style was characterized by its blend of melodic sensibility and technical proficiency. His influence can be heard in countless other musicians who followed in his footsteps, from Southern rock stalwarts like ZZ Top and The Allman Brothers Band to later generations of guitarists such as Tom Morello and John Frusciante. King's legacy extends beyond his own music, serving as a testament to the enduring power of American rock 'n' roll.
In 2018, Ed King passed away at the age of 68, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. As we reflect on his contributions to music history, it is clear that Ed King's impact will be felt for years to come. Through his work with Strawberry Alarm Clock and Lynyrd Skynyrd, King helped shape the sound of two distinct eras in American rock music, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
As we explore the archives of DeepCutsArchive, it becomes clear that Ed King's legacy is not limited to his time with these iconic bands. His influence can be heard in countless other musicians who followed in his footsteps, from Southern rock stalwarts like ZZ Top and The Allman Brothers Band to later generations of guitarists such as Tom Morello and John Frusciante.
Curated from public records and music databases.
