In memory of Duane Allman

Clear and precise, like his playing
The memories of Duane Allman are clear and precise, just like his playing. There were few bells and whistles associated with him, no fuzz or tremelo effects to enhance the natural sound of his Gibson Les Paul. His picking was pure, much like that of the blues gods he emulated.

That unadulterated style reflected his personality. He was, by almost all accounts, a good-natured soul with a big heart and a carefree spirit. It seemed that whoever came into contact with Duane Allman liked him, although he wasn’t very tolerant of nonsense and especially media attention. He was a pleasant individual, but a forceful and intense presence as well.

Duane Allman wasn’t just a blues mimic. He developed his own Southern-fried rocking version of the blues. Fellow blues greats like Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughn — two Texans with generous splashes of Southern Comfort on their licks — became known more for the speed in which their hands picked and their fingers moved across the frets, although they are considered geniuses in their own rights.

Duane’s strength was in his blues instincts. He chose his notes carefully, allowing space to breath between them, but still capable of hitting the accelerator when necessary and wailing. While some guitarists overwhelm  a song with their power, Duane’s playing perfectly complemented the songs he played on while still projecting strength. Some of his long improvisations exhibit impeccable blues, rock and jazz influences, which is why “At Fillmore East” is such a staple in most music fans’ libraries.

The South owes a special debt of gratitude to Duane Allman and his brother Gregg. Naturally, there had been lots of acts that emerged from that region that went on to gain acclaim. But before the Allman Brothers Band, there hadn’t really been a rock band from the South that became a true success story. As a result, Duane and Gregg became inspirations to legions of Southern musicians. Over the years, the work of the Allman Brothers Band has influenced lots of artists, most notably the Marshall Tucker Band and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

He had the confidence and passion of an accomplished artist, but he also radiated the loyalty and trust of a good brother and friend to those who admired him. Although it has been 35 years since he passed, his presence is still felt and his music is still relevant.

Michael Ventre is a freelance writer who lives in Los Angeles. He's a regular contributor to MSNBC.com.

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