Photo: Getty Images
Dickey Betts, the longtime singer and guitarist for the Allman Brothers Band, has died at the age of 80, according to a statement shared on his Instagram page.
"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard 'Dickey' Betts (December 12, 1943 - April 18, 2024) at the age of 80 years old. The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch passed away earlier today at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family. Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt world-wide. At this difficult time, the family asks for prayers and respect for their privacy in the coming days. More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time," the caption reads.
The Allman Brothers Band pioneered a sound that mixed rock, blues, jazz and country, which was immortalized by Betts and late band founder and namesake, Duane Allman, which continued on after the latter's death in 1971. Betts took over as de facto bandleader following Allman's death, which included writing and providing lead vocals on the iconic song 'Ramblin' Man' for the band's 1973 album 'Brothers and Sisters,' which also featured his compositions for 'Southbound' and the instrumental 'Jessica.'
Betts later released several solo albums during the 1970s and 1980s before playing a key roll in the Allman Brothers Band reforming after a seven-year hiatus in 1989, reuniting with founding singer/keyboardist Gregg Allman and drummers Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny Johanson, while adding Dickey Betts Band guitarist Warren Haynes.