Dickey Betts guitarist and lead singer of The Allman Brothers, has died aged 80, it has been confirmed.
The musician’s family announced this news, who stated that Betts died at his home in Osprey, Florida.
Dickey Betts was known for writing one of the band’s biggest hits ‘Ramblin Man’ in 1973.
Other tracks from the Allman Brothers Band credited to Betts also include Southbound, and Blue Sky. The band released their self-titled debut album following their formation in 1969.
The Allman Brothers Band also suffered awful tragedy, following the deaths of Duane Allman in a motorcycle accident in 1971, with founding member Berry Oakley suffering the same fate a year later.
“larger than life”
Releasing a statement, David Spero who was Betts’ manager for 20 years, said that he had been battling cancer for over a year, and had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
“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”, he said.
“The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch passed away earlier today at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family”, he continued. “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”, the statement added. “More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time”.
In 1995, The Allman Brothers Band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. A year later, they also won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for Jessica.
In 2012, the band also landed a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dickey Betts left the band in 2000, a year after their 30th anniversary, but continued to play in his own band, Great Southern, which featured his son Duane Betts.
