History of Blue Sky (song) in Timeline

"Blue Sky" is a song by The Allman Brothers Band, featured on their 1972 album "Eat a Peach." Written and sung by guitarist Dickey Betts, it was inspired by his girlfriend, Sandy "Bluesky" Wabegijig. The song holds significance as one of Duane Allman's last recordings with the band, showcasing the dual guitar work of Allman and Betts, with solos from both. "Blue Sky" has a distinct country influence, differentiating it from much of the band's other work.

April 1971: Early Jam Session of 'Blue Sky'

In April 1971, The Allman Brothers Band recorded an embryonic version of "Blue Sky" during a jam session in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, captured on the fan bootleg, The Gatlinburg Tapes. Duane Allman encouraged Dickey Betts to sing the song himself.

September 19, 1971: Live Performance at S.U.N.Y. Stonybrook

On September 19, 1971, The Allman Brothers Band played "Blue Sky" live at a concert at S.U.N.Y. Stonybrook. This performance was later released by the band. Other bootleg recordings from other shows also circulate.

1972: Release of Eat a Peach Album

In 1972, The Allman Brothers Band released their third studio album, Eat a Peach, which included the song "Blue Sky". "Blue Sky" was written and sung by guitarist Dickey Betts and the track features one of Duane Allman's final recorded performances with the group.

1975: Joan Baez Cover of "Blue Sky"

In 1975, Joan Baez covered "Blue Sky" on her album Diamonds & Rust. It was released as a single, reaching #57 on Billboard's Hot 100 Chart.

2018: Frank Hannon Releases "Blue Sky" Cover

In 2018, Frank Hannon, Dickey Betts' son-in-law, released a cover of "Blue Sky" featuring Dickey Betts' son, Duane Betts, on guitar. The cover album titled "From one place...to Another! Vol.1" reached #27 on Billboards Folk / Americana charts.