Pick of the Week: The Allman Brothers Band – Jessica
This week's track is Jessica by The Allman Brothers Band. Released in 1973, Jessica was written by guitarist Dickey Betts. He has stated in interviews that he came up with the signature melody as a nod to the jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. He wanted to write a song that could be played with only two fingers like Django (Reinhardt lost the use of two of his fingers on his fretting hand after an injury).
Jessica is an instrumental track that modulates between the keys of A major and D major. It is a great example of how to use arpeggios while constructing a melody and solo line. Crank up the volume and enjoy some top-notch classic rock guitar playing!
