Guitarist and co-founder of Allman Brothers Dickey Betts has died peacefully at the age of 80.

Betts was a culture-defining musician who helped shape the Southern rock genre of the 60’s and 70’s. He and Berry Oakley joined the Allman Brothers in 1969, playing alongside guitarist Duane Allman and his keyboardist brother Gregg, as well as drummer Butch Trucks.

After Duane Allman’s tragic passing in October 1971, Betts took a more fronting role in the group as songwriter and lead vocalist. He would later go on to write some of the band’s most popular singles, such as ‘Crazy Love’ and ‘Straight From The Heart’.

 

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Betts was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Allman Brothers Band in 1995.

Today, his family posted a statement on Instagram today, writing “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.”