Damon Johnson opened up about the signs of Gary Rossington’s declining health before his passing in March while talking to Gas Masks and Hand Grenades. The guitarist’s deteriorating condition, apparently, became evident during a crucial period.
While discussing how he’d seen hints that the guitarist’s deteriorating health was getting worse, Johnson mentioned how the guitarist had been holding onto music. Johnson said:
“Before Gary passed this March, Gary’s health had been in question for some time but he just wanted to keep playing. That’s just what he wanted to do.”
Johnson Had To Step Into Gary’s Shoes
Before he stepped into Gary’s shoes permanently after his death, the rocker stated how he had to fill in for Rossington in 2021 while the COVID-19 pandemic was still going strong. Rossington, although he loved being on stage with Lynyrd Skynyrd, couldn’t make it to the shows due to his deteriorating health. Johnson mentioned:
“So, they called in 2021 [but] he couldn’t make these dates, and this is when everybody’s trying to clamor and get out [because] of COVID. All the dates had been canceled for all bands, so, it was an honor and thrill for me to get to fill in for one of my major guitar influences… I knew Gary already and I just loved that guy.”
You can watch the full interview below.
