The last time we visited Alabama Getaway it seems that it was established in the comments section that the song was most likely about Keith and Donna in some way, shape, or form. Of course, every time I listen to the song now I think about that.
Apparently the shine wore off the song as the 80s progressed. It was only played a handful of times each year from 1985 to 1989, before being dropped until 1995 for four more performances. Vince is credited with bringing back a number of old chestnuts. Was he behind the, albeit brief, resurgence of Alabama Getaway? A standard I-IV-V type of rocker this song was a great first set piece, and I can only imagine it would have been a welcome replacement for any of the trio of Chuck Berry songs that cluttered so many setlists over the years (no, I will not let it go!).
When looking for up-beat Dead songs to play recently Alabama Getaway seemed like a no-brainer to me. The A and C tag at the end of the chorus is so simple but such a cool little transition at the same time. Like I said it’s a typical I-IV-V type of song, but that little riff emphasizing the minor third sets it apart from so many songs composed in a similar vein. All this is to say I’m looking forward to getting out and playing this song again in one context or another.
They did not actually replace the Chuck Berry numbers, merely adding to them. Before this song came out, many a set opened with Promised Land. After, it was Alabama Get Away into Promised Land.
Oh, I know. My point was that I wish they had replaced the Berry songs with rockers like this one!
Vince was certainly behind a couple of breakouts, but, without any inside dope (no pun intended), I always assumed they dusted this one off in ’95 because they were returning to Alabama for the first time in quite awhile. But when they played in Birmingham they DID NOT play this song…perhaps because Donna was reportedly in attendance? That reinforced my belief that Alabama Getaway was indeed about Keith and Donna. But I don’t know for sure, of course.
As for Chuck Berry, I don’t have a problem with him as long as he’s nowhere near a restroom my wife or daughter is using. GD versions: I love Promised Land, Johnny B Goode is good (not Greate) and I could live without Around, although it has it’s moments, particularly in the 70s.