Gimme Three Steps

Lynyrd Skynyrd's song 'Gimme Three Steps' tells a vivid and humorous story of a man who finds himself in a precarious situation at a bar called The Jug. The protagonist is dancing with a girl named Linda Lu when her jealous and armed boyfriend walks in, mistaking the protagonist's intentions. The tension escalates quickly as the boyfriend, described as 'lean, mean, big and bad,' confronts the protagonist with a gun, demanding an explanation for his actions.

The protagonist, fearing for his life, pleads with the armed man, explaining that he has no interest in causing trouble and didn't even kiss Linda Lu. He asks for a simple favor: 'Gimme three steps towards the door,' promising that if granted this small mercy, he will leave and never return. This plea for a chance to escape highlights the protagonist's desperation and quick thinking in a life-threatening situation.

The song's narrative is both intense and comical, capturing the absurdity of the situation while also conveying the genuine fear of the protagonist. The crowd's reaction and the protagonist's prayer add to the drama, culminating in a moment of relief when the boyfriend turns his attention to Linda Lu, allowing the protagonist to make his escape. 'Gimme Three Steps' is a classic example of Lynyrd Skynyrd's storytelling prowess, blending Southern rock with relatable, everyday scenarios that resonate with listeners.