Dickey Betts, Allman Brothers Band Singer-Guitarist, Dead at 80 (Rolling Stone)

[ificandream]

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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."

From his trademark mustache to his bad-ass demeanor, Betts was so iconic that he inspired the character of Russell (played by Billy Crudup) in Cameron Crowe's Almost Famous. "Goddamn, that guy looks like me!" Betts told Rolling Stone of his first reaction to the movie. "I didn't do the jumping off the roof or the 'golden god,' but I knew Cameron."

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

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[sop]

1. I still listen to Live at the Filmore East.

RIP Mr.Betts.

[ificandream]

2. Same here.

I have the complete concert set on my iPhone. I will listen to it today.

[Celerity]

3. RIP

The Allman Brothers are not my cuppa, but I respect his skill.

Condolences to his family.

[Diamond_Dog]

4. Oh wow. We have lost so many legends.

He was a master and a musical treasure. RIP Dickey.

[k0rs]

5. I remember...

cruisin' out of Breckenridge, CO late one night on my way to Colorado Springs to see my girlfriend. I was in a clapped out 70's Ford van with a lousy heater and an 8 track on the dash crankin' "Whipping Post." Coming down Hoosier pass into Alma, CO (world's highest incorporated town!) @ over 10,000 ft I emerged into South Park...yes, that South Park...flat and cold on that winter night. It was so clear and the moon was so bright that I could drive without headlights. Buffalo Peaks on my right and Mt Silverheels on my left. Funny how some isolated moments stick with a person. No particular reason, everything just seemed so apropos. Couple of doobies and a Molson's. "Tie me to the whippin' post..."

I'm a blues fan but the Allman Bros band was just sorta on the periphery of my interest. Pretty hard to escape in those days if one was a partier or pub crawler. Gawd, I remember hearing Rambling Man on the juke at the Catalpa Grove Tavern 'til it nearly set my teeth on edge. I did like Greg's blues voice tho. I probably have a greater appreciation for the band these days than I did then. I still pull 'em up on You Tube every now and then. One Way Out is all time great. Smooth sailing, Dicky...