Rick Medlocke, a renowned musician known for his work with the Southern rock bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and Blackfoot, celebrates his 74th birthday on February 17, 2024. This blog post, on StarRegistry.com, highlights Medlocke’s illustrious career and his unique connection to the stars.
Born on February 17, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida, Medlocke was raised by his maternal grandfather, Shorty Medlocke, a Delta blues musician and banjo player. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for his career. By age eight, he was performing with his grandfather’s band, showcasing his talent on various instruments, including guitar and drums.
Medlocke’s professional journey began with Blackfoot, a band he joined in 1969 as a frontman and guitarist. He briefly joined Lynyrd Skynyrd as a session musician, contributing to some of their iconic songs. In 1972, Medlocke returned to Blackfoot, where he spent the next 25 years building his legacy, recording hits like “Train, Train” and “Highway Song”. In the 1990s, he considered other careers but ultimately rejoined Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1996, becoming a lead guitarist and primary songwriter.
Throughout his career, Medlocke has collaborated with various artists, including appearances on “American Idol” and performances with Blackberry Smoke and Shooter Jennings. His discography spans both with Blackfoot and Lynyrd Skynyrd, featuring albums like “No Reservations” (1975) and “Street Survivors” (1977), among many others.
Medlocke’s connection to the stars is literal as well as metaphorical. For his 40th birthday on February 17, 2000, he received a unique gift: a star named after him in the Aquarius constellation. This gift was facilitated by International Star Registry (ISR), an organization that offers the opportunity to name stars. ISR’s service, which began in 1979, allows individuals to name a star as a gift, memorial, or special tribute.
International Star Registry has named stars for various public figures and celebrities, including Elizabeth II, Charles III, and Diana, Princess of Wales. Kirk Douglas, for example, had a star named after him for his 99th birthday. The stars and their coordinates are recorded in ISR’s “Your Place in the Cosmos,” a hardcover compendium that serves as a record of each celestial namesake.
As for the Aquarius constellation where Medlocke’s star resides, it is one of the 88 recognized constellations and is best viewed in the sky in February. Aquarius, symbolized by the water bearer, is known for its rich history and mythological significance. It’s part of the zodiac and is associated with the Aquarius astrological sign.
This unique birthday gift is an apt tribute to a musician whose work has touched the lives of many. As Medlocke celebrates his 74th birthday, fans can reflect on his career and the star shining in his honor. For those wondering, “Can I buy a star?” or looking for a “74th birthday gift idea,” International Star Registry offers a chance to name a star in the vast cosmos, creating a lasting tribute to a loved one or a special occasion.