Rock legend Dickey Betts, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and co-founder of The Allman Brothers Band, has sadly died aged 80.
The music star is known for writing hits including Ramblin’ Man, which appeared on their hit 1973 album, Brothers and Sisters. Betts passed away on Thursday, surrounded by his loved ones, his family has confirmed.
Dickey Betts dies aged 80
“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,” his family began via a statement on the star’s Instagram.
“The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch passed away earlier today at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family.”
He was described by his family as “being larger than life,” adding that “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,” the statement concluded.
Betts’ manager, he died of cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a statement to Rolling Stone.
His band have also paid tribute to his legacy, as they released, “Dickey wrote quintessential Brothers songs including Blue Sky, Rambling Man, Jessica, In Memory of Elizabeth Reed and many others. His extraordinary guitar playing alongside guitarist Duane Allman created a unique dual guitar signature sound that became the signature sound of the genre known as Southern Rock.
“He was passionate in life, be it music, songwriting, fishing, hunting, boating, golf, karate or boxing. Dickey was all in on and excelled at anything that caught his attention.”
Duane Allman, whom Betts shared lead guitar duties with sadly passed away in a motorcycle accident in 1971. A year later, founding member Berry Oakley was also killed in a motorcycle crash.
Tributes pour in for the rock legend – ‘never will be another like him’
Betts left the band for good in 2000, continuing to play with his own band, Great Southern, alongside his son Duane Betts.
During his time in the Allman Brothers, the rock star inspired fans across the globe. In 1995, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The following year, they won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for Jessica.
In 2012, the group achieved the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Fans have now taken to social media to pay tribute to the inspiring star.
“Anyone who could compose ‘Blue Sky’ and ‘Jessica’ among other great songs had beauty in his soul. I would have liked to shake his hand,” penned one.
Another wrote: “My heart is with the Betts family. Dickey will forever be one of the most inspiring musicians the world has ever known.”
A third penned: “Never will be another like him. Thank you for the music and for the inspiration!”
“Dickey’s road will go on forever in the hearts of millions. A true legend,” commented a fourth.
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