Dickey Betts, Allman Brothers Band Co-Founder, Dies at 80
The Country-Inflected Songwriter and Blazing Lyrical Guitarist Helped Define Southern Rock
Betts' piercing solos and beloved songs left an indelible mark on the band and the genre
Dickey Betts, the singer-songwriter and guitarist of the Allman Brothers Band, has died at the age of 80. Betts' manager confirmed the news to Rolling Stone, stating that the musician passed away on Thursday, April 18th.
Betts was born Forrest Richard Betts on December 12, 1943. He co-founded the Allman Brothers Band in 1969 with Duane Allman, Gregg Allman, Berry Oakley, Butch Trucks, and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson. Betts' country-inflected songwriting and blazing lyrical guitar work opposite Duane Allman helped define the Southern rock genre of the 1960s and 1970s.
Some of Betts' most notable songs for the Allman Brothers Band include "Ramblin' Man," "Blue Sky," and "Jessica." He also released several solo albums throughout his career, including "Highway Call" (1974) and "Dickey Betts & Great Southern" (1977).
Betts left the Allman Brothers Band in 1977 but rejoined the group in 1989. He remained a member until his death, performing with the band at their final show in 2014.
Betts' death is a significant loss for the music world. He was a talented musician and songwriter who helped shape the sound of Southern rock. His music will continue to be enjoyed by fans for generations to come.
A double CD live set, "Dickey Betts Great Southern Official Live At The Ritz 1979," is scheduled to be released on April 30th via Sunset Blvd Records. Pre-orders are available now.
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