ABB Chronology – Beginnings – Allman Brothers Band

Allman Brothers Band Chronology

This chronology is a timeline of major personnel changes and album releases from the beginning to the final live performance in October 2014. While live shows are now history, we are combing the archives for material. Visit the Discography page to see what’s been released and join the Peach Corps to stay informed.

Beginnings

The Allman Brothers Band is formed in Jacksonville, Florida:

Duane Allman, lead and slide guitar
Gregg Allman, lead vocals and Hammond B3 organ
Dickey Betts, lead guitar
Berry Oakley, bass
Butch Trucks, drums and percussion
Jai Johanny Johanson "Jaimoe", drums

March 26, 1969

November 1969

The Allman Brothers Band

Their first album, "The Allman Brothers Band," is released.

Idlewild South

Their second album, "Idlewild South," named after their Macon country retreat, is released.

Thom Doucette appears on harmonica and percussion

September 1970

July 1971

At Fillmore East

The band releases a double live album, At Fillmore East, recorded during three nights in March 1971 at the Fillmore East in NYC.

The album is their breakthrough, and goes on to be widely considered one of the best live rock recordings of all time.

Thom Doucette appears on harmonica

Duane Allman

Duane Allman's life is tragically cut short by a motorcycle accident in Macon, GA. The Brothers decide to carry on without adding a new guitarist, feeling that Duane cannot be replaced. Dickey Betts plays all the guitar parts, and fans hear him play slide for the first time.

October 29, 1971

November 1971

Five Man Band

November 1971- November 1972 The band is composed of:

Gregg Allman, lead vocals and Hammond B3 organ
Dickey Betts, lead and slide guitar
Berry Oakley, bass
Butch Trucks, drums and percussion
Jai Johanny Johanson "Jaimoe", drums

Eat a Peach

"Eat A Peach", a double album, with both studio and live tracks is released.

February 1972

November 11, 1972

Berry Oakley

Only a bit more than a year after losing Duane, the band is shocked by the loss of Berry Oakley in another motorcycle accident, only blocks from where Duane's happened. Once again, the band decides that the best tribute to the memory of the departed brothers is to keep on playing, and so they do.