Ronald Wayne "Ronnie" Van Zant (January 15, 1948 – October 20, 1977) was an American lead vocalist, primary lyricist, and a founding member of the
Southern rock band
Lynyrd Skynyrd. He was the older brother of current Lynyrd Skynyrd lead vocalist
Johnny Van Zant, and of the founder and vocalist of
38 Special,
Donnie Van Zant. He is the father of singer Tammy Van Zant, and cousin of musician Jimmie Van Zant.