"Ramblin' Man" Dickey Betts of Allman Brothers - RIP at age 80

Dback Jon

Killer Snail
Moderator
Supporting Member
Joined
May 14, 2002
Posts
80,711
Reaction score
39,825
Location
Scottsdale
Dickey Betts, the singer, songwriter and guitarist of the Allman Brothers Band whose piercing solos, beloved songs and hell-raising spirit defined the band and Southern rock in general, died Thursday morning at the age of 80. The cause was cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Betts’ manager David Spero confirmed to Rolling Stone.

“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,” Betts’ family announced in a statement to Rolling Stone. “The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch was at his home in Osprey, Florida, surrounded by his family. Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt worldwide. 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.”

Although he was often overshadowed by Gregg and Duane, the brothers who gave the Allmans their name, Betts was as equally vital to the band. His sweetly sinuous guitar style introduced elements of Western swing and jazz into the band’s music, especially when he was duetting with Duane. As a singer and writer, Betts was responsible for the band’s biggest hit, 1973’s “Ramblin’ Man,” as well as some of their most recognizable songs: the moody instrumental “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed,” the jubilant “Jessica” and their late-period comeback hit “Crazy Love.”

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/dickey-betts-allman-brothers-band-dead-727523/
 

MigratingOsprey

Thank You Paul!
Joined
Jul 20, 2003
Posts
13,782
Reaction score
6,561
Location
Goodyear
RIP - gave a lot to music and influenced many.

I didn't get into them until later, well past their day - but listen to them frequently and he's very much the vibe that always pulls me in
 

Forum statistics

Threads
549,192
Posts
5,366,485
Members
6,306
Latest member
SportsBetJake
Top