The Russell Theatre presents Lynyrd Skynyrd | Lebanon, Va

Second Helping began in 1988 in Jacksonville, Florida. Second Helping guitarist Chris McCallister was invited by his friend and Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King to a rehearsal at the Lynyrd Skynyrd rehearsal studio located at Larkin Collins’ office. While attending the rehearsal, Chris asked the members how long they would continue to tour. Various Skynyrd members responded, “Just this year as a tribute to our fans,” Chris responded, “What? Someone ought to do a tribute to you guys!” At that point, some Skynyrd members, especially Gary Rossington, laughed. Rossington said to McCallister, “What, like Beatlemania?” McCallister was embarrassed. McCallister returned home to Clearwater and began writing a tribute show to pay homage to Lynyrd Skynyrd. The result was the first-ever tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd. Since 1988, Second Helping has worked with a few of the Skynyrd guitarists on song parts.

Soon thereafter, Second Helping was formed, and it began to sell out shows in Florida. It was listed as one of the JAM magazine’s top bands in Florida. Booking agent Richard Lustig signed the band in 1990, and they began touring the United States, Canada, and Mexico immediately. The band’s popularity soared after appearing in a live concert on MTV. The concert was a benefit for Chris Oliva, former guitarist for Savatage. The band had reached national attention and has enjoyed their success ever since.