Come and Go Blues

The song "Come and Go Blues" by the Gregg Allman Band from their 1977 album Playin' Up a Storm is a soulful track that captures the essence of Southern rock and blues. Written by Gregg Allman, the song reflects themes of longing and emotional turmoil, with lyrics like "Lord, you got those come and go blues" evoking a sense of heartache and resilience. In a 2011 interview with American Songwriter, Allman described the song as one that came from a deeply personal place, inspired by the ups and downs of relationships during his tumultuous years in the 1970s. The track’s laid-back groove and Allman’s distinctive, gravelly voice make it a standout, often praised by fans for its raw emotion. On X, a post by user @bluezharp in 2021 highlighted a 1982 performance of the song on Letterman, noting its "soulful" vibe and suitability for "long summer days," which resonates with the Zoo Freaks’ love for its chill, hippie-friendly sound.

Another piece of trivia about "Come and Go Blues" is its recording process during the Playin' Up a Storm sessions. According to a 1977 article in Rolling Stone, Allman was battling personal struggles, including alcohol abuse, yet managed to deliver powerful vocals. The album was recorded at Warner Bros. Recording Studios in North Hollywood, with strings and horns for tracks like "Brightest Smile In Town" added at United Western Studios. Fans on the Allman Brothers Band Fan Group on Facebook often discuss how Allman’s ability to channel his pain into his music gave "Come and Go Blues" its authentic bluesy feel. The song also appeared in live performances, with a notable version by the Allman Brothers Band at the 2012 Wanee Festival, as shared on YouTube, showcasing its enduring appeal among fans.

Gregg Allman, the frontman of the Gregg Allman Band, began his musical journey in Nashville, Tennessee, where he was born on December 8, 1947. Alongside his brother Duane, Allman developed a passion for rhythm and blues as a teenager. According to his biography on AllMusic, the brothers started performing in local bands like the Allman Joys in the mid-1960s. After moving to Daytona Beach, Florida, they formed the Hour Glass in 1967, releasing two albums for Liberty Records. However, it was in 1969, when they founded the Allman Brothers Band in Macon, Georgia, that Allman’s career took off. Allman’s soulful voice and keyboard skills, combined with Duane’s guitar prowess, helped the band fuse blues, rock, jazz, and country, creating a groundbreaking sound. Allman wrote iconic songs like "Whipping Post" and "Midnight Rider," cementing his legacy. His solo career, including the Gregg Allman Band, began in 1973 with the album Laid Back, and Playin' Up a Storm marked a high point in 1977.

For fans wanting to connect with Gregg Allman’s legacy, the official website is www.greggallman.com. The official Gregg Allman Facebook page and Instagram account (@officialgreggallman) share updates and tributes, though posts have slowed since Allman’s passing in 2017. On X, fans can find discussions using hashtags like #GreggAllman or follow accounts like @GreggAllmanFans for community posts. Fan communities thrive in places like the Allman Brothers Band Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks might enjoy swapping stories. Additionally, www.allmanbrothersband.com serves as a hub for band-related content, and fan sites like www.allmanbrothers.com offer forums and merchandise for dedicated supporters.