Classic rock can get a little melodramatic. For example, the lyrics of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” don’t warrant the tune’s over the top instrumental. The song was a hit but it missed the No. 1 spot.

From rock staple to Fourth of July favorite, the iconic track has taken on a life of its own since the '70s.

It never reached the Top 10, but this 1973 rock song went on to become one of the most beloved and enduring anthems in music history.

There might be no song more popular in the United States during the Olympics than "Free Bird," a southern rock anthem that has transformed from a classic rock staple into the unofficial heartbeat of ...