Guest Book

Dear Family, Thanks for the good vibes and prayers and all the good thoughts. I knew I could count on you all. The best family on the web and in person too. See ya all at Waterloo if not sooner! ABB: 8/13-Jones Beach, LI, NY 8/14-PNC, Holmdel, NJ and then there's the 'bad tooth' dude who I cannot wait to see!!! at Waterloo on Aug. 16th. 😀 Now that is gonna be one big a$$ party 😀 Thanks again to everyone. Peachful evening to y'all...best wishes always.

I am curious as to how the Allman Brothers tour went in, I think it was 1999, when they played under the sponsorship of NASCAR. They all seemed to have fun doing the commercials and promos, and it generally seemed to be a good fit. How does the band feel about corporate sponsorship in general? Does it help or hinder, when it comes to things like financial performance tied to gate draws? Are the logistics of touring easier or more difficult? Are the legal ramifications and restrictions too limiting under the corporate sponsors watchful eye, or is it business as usual. Does corporate sponsorship resonate negatively in the artistic community as “selling out to the man?” I am curious about the general consensus of the band after having toured for an entire summer season, as to whether it was a good or bad thing. Enjoyable or regrettable. To me, the Allmans and NASCAR seemed a good fit at that point in time. The reason I bring up these questions, is that I really wonder if the band would ever be amenable to engaging in such a partnership again. The brothers of old used to oft be associated with bikers, and wild eyed southern boys, even if the band never directly promoted either one of those associations. It seemed as though there was a mystique about the band, where tattoos, motorcycles, fast living and the road dawg image were unofficial trademarks of the band lifestyle, even though their mission and message ran far deeper than the media coverage they received, back in the day. Obviously, today, the band takes on a much different persona, but the history and legend are still part of the legacy of a life lived on the highway and forged on the backroads and roadhouses of America. I think the Allman Brothers are as much an American icon as any other. Another made in the USA icon for this land of freedom in which we live, is Harley Davidson. This American legend has just kicked off, what will be a year long celebration of their 100th anniversary, with what they’re calling The Open Road Tour, this past weekend in Atlanta Georgia. This traveling road show will snake it’s way across this nation between now and August 2003 where “the Ride Home,” “the Celebration” and “the Party” will climax in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Much of the bands history, both triumphant and tragic, has been associated with Harley Davidson motorcycles. Many band members once rode, and Gregg Allman still speaks fondly in interviews of his love for riding Harley Davidson motorcycles. There is a fine picture of Gregg, proudly perched atop a customized Harley, with a fancy ‘flame job” painted on the fuel tank. I think some form of association between the Allman Brothers and Harley Davidson would be mutually complementary of both organizations, and heighten the celebration of a legendary American manufacturing company and a legendary American musical group. Rock and Roll sells, and brand loyalty isn’t easily compromised in retail or entertainment. There is much history that could be played upon. HD has had 100 years of a storied past, glorious years of success, dark periods of near failure and turmoil and finally a successful phoenix-like recovery, that continues to grow and gain strength as they move forward. Not too dissimilar than the 30+ year history of the Allman Brothers Band itself. They both epitomize the modern American story; humble beginnings, a hungry rise to the top, a tragic fall from grace, and a turnaround recovery poised to conquer difficulties and boldly ride into the future. The bands modern image holds nothing corporate America might shy away from. Bad habits have been kicked and the energies are now focused on a productive and creative future. Gregg Allman could be the poster boy for a hard life turned around. Warren Haynes is the iron man for his work ethic and leadership abilities. Derek (Susan & Charlie) are the all American family full of youthful enthusiasm. Jaimoe and Butch posses a depth of knowledge and philosophy of life worthy of anyone’s praise. Otiel brings a level of quiet, contemplative, worldliness. And Marc is a firestorm of passion and grace in a key role. Not to mention all of their immense musical talents. The band is also a model of diversity in age, culture, ethnic background and stylistic philosophy. You have young and not so young. You have black, white and Hispanic. You have a group of gentlemen, synergizing their diversity toward a common goal of producing the best product that can be delivered. If the Allman Brothers had a corporate mission statement, it may sound something like that. I am not an employee of either the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company, or the Allman Brothers band, but I am a huge fan of both organizations, and proud to be an American alive in a time and place in history where I can enjoy the creative output of two iconic behemoths, that bring so much joy to so many people. If there was ever a marriage between segments of the entertainment and manufacturing worlds, that would complement one another like no other, it would be the Allman Brothers band and Harley Davidson. There is a saying among the Allman Brothers faithful, that “The Road Goes On Forever.” This could easily be a catch phrase for Harley Davidson Motor Company, as well. I wonder if there is still time or desire, for the Brotherhood to throw a collective leg over the Hog and rumble towards the 100th anniversary party in Milwaukee, 2003? Hmmmmm.

Quote read from under Snapple Pink Lemonade cap "Almonds are members of the peach family". True fact!

Butchhhhhhhhhhh My Merriweather wish list. High Falls Ain't Wastin Time No More What's Done Is Done Come And Go Blues Firing Line Who To Believe End of the Line Dreams Woman Across The River Desdemona Southbound The High Cost Of Low Living Rocking Horse You Don't Love Me New Instrumental One Way Out E: Whipping Post

Sending positive vibes and good wishes to Jody and her Dad. I'm sure everything will be OK. Hang in there Jody. 🙂 For all fellow guitar players out there - In case you weren't aware, in Guitar World magazine Dickey writes a lesson column every month and also starting this issue Warren is also writing a column - this month is some of Warrens slide licks and technique. Interesting reading for guitarists. I just can't get enough guitar stuff. Also a real nice insight on Jimmy Herring's riffs and tricks of the trade in last months Guitar Player. Some awesome tablature is included from Jimmy who IMO is one of the worlds's best players. Have a great day everybody!

Hey Everybody, Only two months until the Atlanta and Oak Mountain shows! What a weekend that will be!! :):) My fantasy setlist for the Lakewood show is looking something like this: Hotlanta Statesboro Blues Ain't Wastin Time No More Hoochie Coochie Man Firing Line Who To Believe End of the Line Dreams Woman Across The River Midnight Rider Southbound The High Cost Of Low Living Rocking Horse You Don't Love Me New Instrumental E: Whipping Post Now that would be a dream! Even if it isn't as interesting as Brent's...

Jody: The warmest of vibes heading your way from the left. Neil: Would love to hit the Rocks over Labor Day. But my second love in life is USC football and we have our first game that weekend against some Auburn team. Haven't missed a home game in 10 years. Jeannie: I am very very afraid. Old Coot: If a Freudian slip is one of those things that Mrs. Roper used to wear than that is what it is 😉 Bird: I thank you for your analysis. You might be on to something. Unfortunately, after reading your analysis, I have this overwhelming desire go to an AA meeting and I wrote down the suicide hotline number and put it in my wallet. Any suggestions on how to deal with these youthful inadaquacies? You know what...you're right. I am pissed. When I was a kid I had one of those off brand big wheels and all my friends had Green Machines. Also, my mom made me wear colored socks with sandals. Could this have anything to do with it?

JodyD can ya feel 'em hun? Good vibes, thoughts and prayers heading to Dad, you and your family. With that great attitude maybe he will be by Friday! 😀 Have not read back far enough to read about your friend Billy but know that you're thought of too. Strength, peace n love to you and yours. Soooooooo glad to know Carl's doing better. God bless y'all, Carole

Positive vibes to your father, Jody!!! Billy, very sorry to hear of your friend's passing. Hang tough.

Dear Brothers and Sisters, I have a huge favor to ask of you all. My 76 year old Dad is going for Angioplasty (he has some kind of blockage) this Thursday. He thinks he will be playing tennis on Friday. (he thinks he's 25 still!) All the good vibes worked so well for Carl (thank God!) and I'm so glad they did. If you have some good vibes you could send my Daddy, I'd appreciate it greatly. Thanks. You're a great family. Love to all and a peachful day.