Allman Brothers Band Guitar Legend Dickey Betts Passes Away at 80
Dickey Betts, co-founder and legendary guitarist of the iconic Southern rock band Allman Brothers, has died at the age of 80. Betts was renowned for his unique guitar playing style and for writing their signature hit “Ramblin’ Man”.
“He was surrounded by his whole family and he passed peacefully,” said Betts’ manager of 20 years, David Spero. Betts had been battling cancer for over a year.
Formed in 1969, the Allman Brothers Band pioneered the Southern rock genre, blending blues, country, R&B and jazz into their signature jam band sound. Betts shared lead guitar duties with Duane Allman, helping shape the band’s unique dual lead guitar approach.
After Duane Allman’s tragic death in 1971, Betts stepped into a leadership role alongside Gregg Allman. He wrote several of their most beloved songs including “Blue Sky” and their signature hit “Ramblin’ Man”. The band went on to record the legendary live album “At Fillmore East” cementing their status as icons of Southern rock.
Legacy of the Allman Brothers Lives On
The loss of Betts marks another chapter in the story of the legendary Allman Brothers Band. While the original band broke up in the 1980s, recent generations of musicians have been heavily influenced by their innovative blues-rock sound. “If not for the Allman Brothers, I don’t think I would be a touring musician,” said blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa.
Betts remained a celebrated guitarist touring with his own bands for decades after leaving the Allman Brothers. His passionate playing and songwriting were a seminal part of the band’s legacy. “He was one of best to ever do it,” said Allman Brothers member Derek Trucks of Betts’ immense talent and impact on music.
The Allman Brothers Band broke barriers as one of rock’s first truly integrated bands from the Deep South. Their legendary live shows and albums introduced millions to the genre-blending sound of Southern rock. Dickey Betts played a huge role in establishing that sound and will be remembered as one of the founding fathers of this iconic American band.
