<p>In a flash of lights, smoke and pyrotechnics, grizzled rock veterans Lynyrd Skynyrd led a diverse group of entertainers Friday at one of the largest Gator Growl productions in recent years.</p>
<p>After more than two hours, the band emerged to play "Free Bird" and several other songs, though scattered cries demanding the song could be heard in the crowd before the rally kicked off.</p>
<p>The band appeared with comedian Frank Caliendo at the 84th annual Gator Growl, billed as the world's largest student-run pep rally.</p>
<p>"We just got one thing to say to you: Skynyrd's in the Swamp!" lead singer Johnny Van Zant shouted. "Are you ready for it or not?"</p>
<p>After playing songs such as "Swamp Music" and "Gimme Three Steps," Lynyrd Skynyrd brought the crowd to its feet with "Sweet Home Alabama."</p>
<p>The climax would come after that song.</p>
<p>"In the words of my brother Ronnie Van Zant: 'What song is it you want to hear tonight?''' Van Zant asked.</p>
<p>With a shout of "Free Bird!" thousands in the crowd lifted up cell phones and lighters as the first few familiar chords were played.</p>
<p>Sara Tanner, Gator Growl's tickets director, said an estimated 44,000 people attended, which was about 10,000 more than last year.</p>
<p>The</a> Independent Florida Alligator: News - Growl entertains about 44,000</p>