Video surfaces of Allen Collins relearning guitar following plane crash
A recent find of previously unseen footage showcases the strength and resilience of Allen Collins, the guitarist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, in the aftermath of a devastating plane crash in 1977. This tragic event resulted in the loss of three members of the band, including vocalist Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist/vocalist Steve Gaines. Collins himself survived the crash but sustained severe injuries, with two broken vertebrae in his neck and extensive damage to his left arm. Despite doctors suggesting amputation, Collins’s father’s refusal set him on a challenging path to recovery.
The newly discovered footage, originally filmed for medical purposes, captures Collins’s journey to regain his ability to play the guitar. The video, sourced from the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s digital archive, was shared online by Dr. Craig A. Miller, a vascular surgeon and medical historian. While the footage is meant for educational purposes related to trauma recovery, it offers a unique glimpse into Collins’s determination and courage as he navigates through the process of healing.
In the video, Collins is seen donning a neck brace and hospital attire, with an orthopedic fixator visibly attached to his left arm, aiding in bone stabilization for healing. Despite the evident discomfort and pain on his face, Collins tentatively strums chords on his Fender Stratocaster, showcasing both his physical struggles and inner strength. His ability to play even a snippet of “Sweet Home Alabama” amidst such adversity is a testament to his unwavering spirit.
The aftermath of the plane crash resulted in the disbandment of Lynyrd Skynyrd, with Collins eventually returning to the stage as part of the Rossington Collins Band, alongside fellow Skynyrd guitarist Gary Rossington. While the footage serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic events of 1977, it also sheds light on Collins’s resilience and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Despite the authenticity of the video being vouched for by Dr. Miller and others familiar with the filming process, there have been claims that the footage may have been artificially generated. However, Dr. Miller affirms in a post on Substack that to the best of his knowledge, “the Collins video is 100% genuine.” He further states that individuals closely associated with the events at the time have verified the authenticity of the footage, noting that it has been showcased in academic settings as a legitimate record of Collins’s recovery journey.
In conclusion, the remarkable footage of Allen Collins’s post-crash recovery not only underscores the tragic trajectory of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s history but also celebrates the guitarist’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The video serves as a poignant tribute to Collins’s enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to his craft, offering a rare and moving glimpse into his journey of healing and eventual return to music.