The Allman Brothers Band: Blue Sky

A little late Friday Flipside post this evening, but we have one and it comes in the form of the “B” side by The Allman Brothers Band. While “A” side “Melissa” only peaked at 86, it was one of my favorite tunes from the band’s legendary “Eat A Peach” album. This was the LP that the band was recording at the time of Duane Allman’s death.

The flip to “Melissa” was a Dickey Betts’ composition, “Blue Sky.” Written about Betts’ girlfriend and future wife, Sandy “Bluesky” Wabegijig. Following the couple’s divorce, Betts stopped performing this tune for awhile; however, he currently does it in concert.

“Blue Sky” was the first Allman Brothers’ tune to feature Betts on vocals. Both Betts and Duane Allman share lead and twin guitar duties on this tune. You can hear Duane on the first solo following the initial chorus. The lead morphs into twin leads featuring both guitarists and ends with Betts on lead guitar.

The single was released during the summer of 1972.