Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Rickey Medlocke recently shared his thoughts on the live music scene, making a bold claim about the authenticity of modern concerts. Speaking on Ted Nugent’s Spirit Campfire podcast, Medlocke expressed his belief that many acts today don’t play their instruments live during performances.

Medlocke told Nugent, “You [Ted Nugent] and I, along with a few others, are probably the only ones out there every night actually playing our instruments. We don’t use any pre-recorded tracks, and while I understand there are times when it’s necessary for some, it’s not for us.”

He went on to emphasize the commitment of both Lynyrd Skynyrd and Nugent’s bands, saying, “For us, and for a select few others, we go out there and play. We live and breathe what we do.”

Medlocke’s remarks come amid a growing conversation about the authenticity of live performances in rock music, particularly the use of backing tracks. This issue was recently highlighted by Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson, who strongly criticized the practice.

In an interview with Classic Rock, Dickinson declared, “That’s the day I quit. If it’s not real, it’s not Maiden.” He also added, “Maiden has to be one hundred percent real—and f*cking fierce!” Dickinson’s statement reflects a growing sentiment that live shows should stay authentic and free from artificial enhancements.

Earlier this year, Dickinson further reinforced his stance in a conversation on the Rich Roll podcast. He emphasized, “We still play all the songs in the original key. We don’t detune, and we don’t use tricks. If I can’t do it the way I should be doing it, I shouldn’t be doing it at all.”

The debate about backing tracks versus live, raw performances is becoming a key issue for many rock fans. Is the essence of live music fading away as more artists rely on pre-recorded elements, or are these innovations just a necessary part of modern performance?