He will always be Dickie Betts even if he can't play or sing like he used to.
I think he will always be Dickey Betts.
If he wasn't up to snuff musically okay, he doesn't have to be perfect every night. Gregg's passing is a huge toll on everybody from the band. Coming back to Macon and Gregg and Butch not being there to play, well that can take a little bit of an emotional toll on him in addition to anything else. Cut him a little slack for that would you?
He's come out of semi-retirement and has to get back in the groove. Everybody supporting that musically will help make that happen. Dickey needs to play, that is why God still left him here. We are going into the effin' end times, do you not know that? He's here with his music to help support the rest of us still here. So I will say Thank You Dickey, for doin' what you do.
I am quoting this as I like what this poster has said. I can't imagine all the feelings that Dickey must have gone through recently in Macon and I think it is very giving of him to have gone out on stage to please so many fans.
My heart has been sinking reading all the posts that have been harsh on Dickey and other members who have written on this forum.
I love the band, the band members, the music and the fans.
I wish more love would be shared here in the spirit of the wonderful pleasurable gifts we have gotten from the ABB experience.
I am thrilled to be going to 3 Dickey shows this July ! I know his band is exceptional as is he.I will treasure the good notes and forget the rest.Any minutes I get of Dickey's heavenly sound will be well worth the extensive travel time and money spent. They will be moments that will be very preciously held.
We are talking about 8 shows total here, correct? This is not what I would call a 'tour'. Let him play. It will all be over soon.
Duane is so good these days. I can't wait to see what he, Duane, decides to do after July.
Just got to say the Dickey show in Macon was incredible. My wife and I flew in from Chicago for the show. Dickey sounded as good as ever. Brought back so many memories. Duane has become such a fantastic guitarist too. His new cd is just amazing. Bonnie Bramlett out on stage again was another thrill. When Jaimoe joined Dickey, well, it was just magical to see two brothers together again. Afterwards, Jaimoes Jasssz Band was incredibly good. Lamar Williams Jr. and Jack Pearson were on hand to join him. Junior Mack sounded great as always. Grant's Lounge was happening every night till almost 4 am in the morning with Berry Oakley Jr. and Johnny Neel and Chris Anderson. Devon Allman and Duane Betts frequently popped in. Then, the Allman - Betts show was truly special especially when Oakley joined them and they all played with their fathers' guitars. It was an incredible experience and if you missed it, you really missed out. Thank you Mr. Betts for hitting the road again where you belong. What a fantastic experience.
Dickey sounded as good as ever.
Dickey sounded as good as ever.
truly remarkable how widely divergent perceptions of the very same event can be?!
Dickey sounded as good as ever.
truly remarkable how widely divergent perceptions of the very same event can be?!
Check your pm's
To me the solution for Dickey is clear - sing, play rhythm, join in on some of the easier signature twin guitar harmonies, take a couple of very short, concise solos on some of the songs that aren't really jam vehicles. Let Duane play the signature intros, riffs, and Duane and Damon play all the long solos on the jam songs. The vast majority of the audience will have no issues with that at all and people can go see Dickey Betts playing in a band doing strong versions of Dickey Betts songs. There'd be basically zero criticism for making some concessions for age and diminished skill and the crowd gets a great musical experience. What I've seen and heard frankly shouldn't be allowed to continue. There's a better way for this to go down and I hope they consider it.
On Twitter David Spero (Dickey's manager) asked that those spreading the health issues, canceling tour rumors should STFU as they don't know sh!t.
I wonder if luke is as tight with David as he is with Dickey.
I don't think LUKE has the access to Dickey he'd like us all to think he does. He speaks very authoritatively though doesn't he...
Well come on Leafy,put up or shut up.Ya claim to be Rob Prine.I would say if you were him,hopefully you'd know your last dog's name and what kinda dog it was.Or is that too private of information to be sharing on the internet?I mean your dog's name and what breed it was is purty dang classified info.And one more question?What's the name of the bar Betts got busted at down south.
Fire away or crawl back under! And don't be sendin me none of them lame private message gig's.Face the fire with fire.Least that's what a man is supposed to do.But then again.
Sendin PM's saying you'd meet me anywhere/anytime,and that you'd crush my face.Don't make me laugh little turtle dove!Bring your small minded talk out here in the open boy.
[Edited on 5/30/2018 by LUKE]
[Edited on 5/30/2018 by LUKE]
Soon as i got thru typing that last message i getta PM from Leafy.It reads what was my dog's name F YOU ! And what was the name of the bar Betts got busted at? GO F YOURSELF!
Plain and simple.Your a liar,loser,coward,POS Leafy!
Ain't got the nut's the size of a cock roach.
LOL, good one
To me the solution for Dickey is clear - sing, play rhythm, join in on some of the easier signature twin guitar harmonies, take a couple of very short, concise solos on some of the songs that aren't really jam vehicles. Let Duane play the signature intros, riffs, and Duane and Damon play all the long solos on the jam songs. The vast majority of the audience will have no issues with that at all and people can go see Dickey Betts playing in a band doing strong versions of Dickey Betts songs. There'd be basically zero criticism for making some concessions for age and diminished skill and the crowd gets a great musical experience. What I've seen and heard frankly shouldn't be allowed to continue. There's a better way for this to go down and I hope they consider it.
Working in a short acoustic set would be a cool change of pace for the shows 
-- breaking out a less-familiar gem or two here & there -- these were warmup gigs, the guys will really be ready to hit it come this summer's shows
Thanks to you Luke and Gina and to all the DB supporters . Ive been told on here by a long time poster years ago that I was an apologist for Mr.DB ....absolutely not... I can barely apologize for my own misgivings ... What I am is. FAN...plain and simple , yesterday today and tomorrow... My expectations could never be meant for my own self why would I put them on someone else who is by the way about 8 yrs older then myself. Lived a life I can’t even imagine in my wildest dreams...he’s accomplished composer, musical genius, has a tone unlike anyone Ive ever heard and a founding member of my favorite band.
I watched the Eric Clapton 12 Bars and I was taken in by Erics honesty to his life hes very articulate in his speech... he is also in his 70s and lived a simpler lifestyle. This man has tinnuis , with loss of hearing , Arthritis, his body seems a bit broken down and lord knows what else. I suspect DB has similar problems .. He’s not as fast in his movements etc.
Again please dont misunderstand this as an apology for Mr. DB he needs none.
If your an ABB/DB fan just enjoy what’s left and stop thinking of yourself as young and vital as you once were take a better look at yourself and stop being a finger pointer and be a lover of the music that brought us all together in the first place .
I luv DB its the happiest tunes I can ever hear.
I love it.
How about we all just pay tribute to this legend named DB who we are lucky to still have around? If you are so upset with the youtubes you have seen then just don't attend any shows. If you want to honor DB and the fact that he is still getting up there thrills you, then go and listen respectfully to whatever it is he has left to give. Let's treasure the enormous gift he has given us. Remember now, there are not many around or have been many around who could stand up there and go toe to toe with Duane Allman. Dickey did, and added a lot of his own fire to the sound.
I love it.
How about we all just pay tribute to this legend named DB who we are lucky to still have around? If you are so upset with the youtubes you have seen then just don't attend any shows. If you want to honor DB and the fact that he is still getting up there thrills you, then go and listen respectfully to whatever it is he has left to give. Let's treasure the enormous gift he has given us.
Yeah, I don't really understand why anyone is upset by this tour. I haven't heard anyone who went asking for their money back. Macon sounded like an amazing moment for fans, a big family reunion. But a bunch of downers watching from home seem to know what's best - what is it to them? Just stay home, don't go.
what was my dog's name F YOU !
Man, that's a strange name for a dog. I wonder if people call the cops when he loses his dog and walks around the neighborhood calling his name.
Yeah, I don't really understand why anyone is upset by this tour. I haven't heard anyone who went asking for their money back. Macon sounded like an amazing moment for fans, a big family reunion. But a bunch of downers watching from home seem to know what's best - what is it to them? Just stay home, don't go.
EXACTLY! Thank you for that observation. 
what was my dog's name F YOU !
Man, that's a strange name for a dog. I wonder if people call the cops when he loses his dog and walks around the neighborhood calling his name.
Ya gotta point there now.The cat come's on here outta the blue and throw's crap my way,claims to be someone he ain't,sends me PM's saying he'll kick my as*/name the time and place etc etc etc etc.I call the tweed out with a coupla simple question's in regard to who he claims he is,and get sent those kinda grade school line's.Leafyon the wind,,,buy ya a new Ken doll or something.Ya got issue's man.
Yeah, looks like there has been some pm harrassment going on, noticed another member with same complaint.Shrug it off man. The web tends to bring out the worst in us, probably because we aren't accountable.
Btw I read the Alan Paul Guitar World article where Joshua Jacobson mentioned you introduced him to Betts, who then recorded on his record. Pretty cool! A guitar player's dream break.
First time post. Long time lurker. Fan since ‘71. This is late, but here’s my Macon trip. Drove a good 5 hrs to Macon for Dickey’s show. Had a full itinerary on show day, starting at Rose Hill Cemetery. What a serene, historic, moving place for not only a Brother’s fan, but anybody who likes history. The headstones and mosoleums are incredible. Seeing the Bond tomb, Liz Reed Napier, Little Martha & 3 of the Brother’s graves in person was pretty overwhelming. Gregg’s site was covered w/flowers, trinkets of every description, Headed to The Big House. It was crowded that day, but we still saw everything and felt that rush of nostalgia, which primed us for a visit to Grant’ Lounge in the afternoon for attitude adjustment. Johnny Neel was at the bar, BD Oakley, Chris Anderson (former Outlaw’s) & rest of the band were there doing a sound check. They played a couple tunes. As we were about to leave, in walks Pedro. Super nice dude! Everyone was accessible and friendly. The vibe in town was that everybody was stoked and about to witness something historic. The bars, streets were overflowing w/fans from across the country. We met people who had driven from MO, OH, FL, even CA. Macon City Auditorium Is a beautiful old venue and the vibe in the room can only be described as ELECTRIC. The anticipation to see the guy again (likely the last time) who meant so much as a player, writer and (IMO) the savior of the band after Duane died, was palpable. You all know the set list, so I won’t reiterate. Dickey had a compression bandage on his right index finger, which seemed to give him some trouble (edge kept unwinding). Just to hear him sing and play again was definitely something I never thought would happen and I would make that trip 10 times over, if I had the chance. His son Duane has really come into his own and his solo on Whipping Post was really great, Devon hugging Dickey onstage & playing Midnight Rider was a highlight, as was Devin playing his Uncle Duane’s gold top, borrowed from the Big House that day. Jaimoe came in and played, which was great, but for those who wanted a Gregg & Dickey reunion before he died, it was bittersweet. The night was for the fans who have begged Dickey to come out one last time, and they cheered him at every turn, listening with their ears AND their hearts. Having it start in Macon was GRAVY and the pilgrims were definitely in the house, along with so many musicians & friends of Dickey’s. Even Sandy (Blue Sky) & their daughter Jessica were there to support Dickey and hear songs written for them, one last time. Afterward, we went back to Grant’s Lounge & heard Oakley’s band. Pedro, Duane showed up & I heard Devon came too, but we left around 2:30 am.. They were rockin’ the house. Chris Anderson was a killer! He and Jack Pearson were backstage w/Dickey checking out his new guitar. All told, it was a celebration of epic proportion and I’m just glad I had the sense to get down to Macon. Seeing Dickey onstage one more time, in Macon, of all places, surrounded by family, friends/musicians, fans was pretty damn epic. Sorry this was such a long ass post, but it’s hard to describe what a lasting memory this will be. I’d like to get to another show, but for God’s sake, Dickey, can’t ya play again south of NY or PA...maybe on your way back home? We will be there!
Thanks for the report, Southernfan, so glad you had a great time. I really wish I could have made it.
Hey, you’re welcome, pcb. I actually feel bad for any Brothers fan that didnt get to go to Macon. There won’t be anything like that ever again. I’d say if anybody hasnt gotten their ass to a show, do it now before it is too late, The Rose Hill trip was a big reminder. There are 3 brothers in the ground, and countless roadies, managers, crew, plus Truck’s ashes elsewhere. That was enough to make me wake up, buy the damn tickets and start driving. The Beacon should bring on some pretty nostalgic moments, too, for those that can make it. Not fond of that drive to the city from down South, so I will wait to see if there is one last show just a tad closer. If not, I’ll continue to catch “the offspring” when they tour close enough for a 2-3 hr. drive and just be damn grateful I made it to the Macon show. Nothing is ever gonna top that experience in this day & age. Also saw where some of this tour money is earmarked for various charities. Dickey and his band donated some of the Macon proceeds to The Big House. Maintenance alone on that place must cost a mint. So...it’s a feel-good ticket all the way around for me.
First time post. Long time lurker. Fan since ‘71. This is late, but here’s my Macon trip. Drove a good 5 hrs to Macon for Dickey’s show. Had a full itinerary on show day, starting at Rose Hill Cemetery. What a serene, historic, moving place for not only a Brother’s fan, but anybody who likes history. The headstones and mosoleums are incredible. Seeing the Bond tomb, Liz Reed Napier, Little Martha & 3 of the Brother’s graves in person was pretty overwhelming. Gregg’s site was covered w/flowers, trinkets of every description, Headed to The Big House. It was crowded that day, but we still saw everything and felt that rush of nostalgia, which primed us for a visit to Grant’ Lounge in the afternoon for attitude adjustment. Johnny Neel was at the bar, BD Oakley, Chris Anderson (former Outlaw’s) & rest of the band were there doing a sound check. They played a couple tunes. As we were about to leave, in walks Pedro. Super nice dude! Everyone was accessible and friendly. The vibe in town was that everybody was stoked and about to witness something historic. The bars, streets were overflowing w/fans from across the country. We met people who had driven from MO, OH, FL, even CA. Macon City Auditorium Is a beautiful old venue and the vibe in the room can only be described as ELECTRIC. The anticipation to see the guy again (likely the last time) who meant so much as a player, writer and (IMO) the savior of the band after Duane died, was palpable. You all know the set list, so I won’t reiterate. Dickey had a compression bandage on his right index finger, which seemed to give him some trouble (edge kept unwinding). Just to hear him sing and play again was definitely something I never thought would happen and I would make that trip 10 times over, if I had the chance. His son Duane has really come into his own and his solo on Whipping Post was really great, Devon hugging Dickey onstage & playing Midnight Rider was a highlight, as was Devin playing his Uncle Duane’s gold top, borrowed from the Big House that day. Jaimoe came in and played, which was great, but for those who wanted a Gregg & Dickey reunion before he died, it was bittersweet. The night was for the fans who have begged Dickey to come out one last time, and they cheered him at every turn, listening with their ears AND their hearts. Having it start in Macon was GRAVY and the pilgrims were definitely in the house, along with so many musicians & friends of Dickey’s. Even Sandy (Blue Sky) & their daughter Jessica were there to support Dickey and hear songs written for them, one last time. Afterward, we went back to Grant’s Lounge & heard Oakley’s band. Pedro, Duane showed up & I heard Devon came too, but we left around 2:30 am.. They were rockin’ the house. Chris Anderson was a killer! He and Jack Pearson were backstage w/Dickey checking out his new guitar. All told, it was a celebration of epic proportion and I’m just glad I had the sense to get down to Macon. Seeing Dickey onstage one more time, in Macon, of all places, surrounded by family, friends/musicians, fans was pretty damn epic. Sorry this was such a long ass post, but it’s hard to describe what a lasting memory this will be. I’d like to get to another show, but for God’s sake, Dickey, can’t ya play again south of NY or PA...maybe on your way back home? We will be there!
Exactly the kind of respectful post I was hoping to see here from someone who was there. That is one hell of a first post.........thanks for taking to leap from "lurker" to "poster".
Really wish I could have gone to the Macon reunion, couldn't get out of a prior commitment. There likely won't be anything like it again. If the Boca Jam goes down in October, I should be able to bear witness, though it won't be quite the same energy as Macon, no doubt.
Wow!! Thanks indeed Southernfan!!! Tugs at the Heart a bit!!!! Well, I am sure I ain't the only one that got to live some of that day through Your post!!!...............Peace..........joe
[Edited on 5/31/2018 by crazyjoe]
First time post. Long time lurker. Fan since ‘71. This is late, but here’s my Macon trip. Drove a good 5 hrs to Macon for Dickey’s show. Had a full itinerary on show day, starting at Rose Hill Cemetery. What a serene, historic, moving place for not only a Brother’s fan, but anybody who likes history. The headstones and mosoleums are incredible. Seeing the Bond tomb, Liz Reed Napier, Little Martha & 3 of the Brother’s graves in person was pretty overwhelming. Gregg’s site was covered w/flowers, trinkets of every description, Headed to The Big House. It was crowded that day, but we still saw everything and felt that rush of nostalgia, which primed us for a visit to Grant’ Lounge in the afternoon for attitude adjustment. Johnny Neel was at the bar, BD Oakley, Chris Anderson (former Outlaw’s) & rest of the band were there doing a sound check. They played a couple tunes. As we were about to leave, in walks Pedro. Super nice dude! Everyone was accessible and friendly. The vibe in town was that everybody was stoked and about to witness something historic. The bars, streets were overflowing w/fans from across the country. We met people who had driven from MO, OH, FL, even CA. Macon City Auditorium Is a beautiful old venue and the vibe in the room can only be described as ELECTRIC. The anticipation to see the guy again (likely the last time) who meant so much as a player, writer and (IMO) the savior of the band after Duane died, was palpable. You all know the set list, so I won’t reiterate. Dickey had a compression bandage on his right index finger, which seemed to give him some trouble (edge kept unwinding). Just to hear him sing and play again was definitely something I never thought would happen and I would make that trip 10 times over, if I had the chance. His son Duane has really come into his own and his solo on Whipping Post was really great, Devon hugging Dickey onstage & playing Midnight Rider was a highlight, as was Devin playing his Uncle Duane’s gold top, borrowed from the Big House that day. Jaimoe came in and played, which was great, but for those who wanted a Gregg & Dickey reunion before he died, it was bittersweet. The night was for the fans who have begged Dickey to come out one last time, and they cheered him at every turn, listening with their ears AND their hearts. Having it start in Macon was GRAVY and the pilgrims were definitely in the house, along with so many musicians & friends of Dickey’s. Even Sandy (Blue Sky) & their daughter Jessica were there to support Dickey and hear songs written for them, one last time. Afterward, we went back to Grant’s Lounge & heard Oakley’s band. Pedro, Duane showed up & I heard Devon came too, but we left around 2:30 am.. They were rockin’ the house. Chris Anderson was a killer! He and Jack Pearson were backstage w/Dickey checking out his new guitar. All told, it was a celebration of epic proportion and I’m just glad I had the sense to get down to Macon. Seeing Dickey onstage one more time, in Macon, of all places, surrounded by family, friends/musicians, fans was pretty damn epic. Sorry this was such a long ass post, but it’s hard to describe what a lasting memory this will be. I’d like to get to another show, but for God’s sake, Dickey, can’t ya play again south of NY or PA...maybe on your way back home? We will be there!
Exactly the kind of respectful post I was hoping to see here from someone who was there. That is one hell of a first post.........thanks for taking to leap from "lurker" to "poster".
What he said. Beautiful! Thanks for sharing your day with us.
Thank You Southernfan. Nice read.
Rob...thanks. Cant see faulting a guy I’ve spent my best years appreciating his contributions to music. Just to see him stand there, try his best, at his age, and then see the outpouring of love in that venue told me I was on the right track with my review. All I have to say to anybody who wants to fault him is “where is YOUR Liz Reed”?, let alone all the other great songs he wrote and co-wrote. That one song alone is a effin masterpiece and if it doesnt still move an ABB fan, then ya might as well have your ass planted in Rose Hill, too. LOL
Bob..,I’m still on the fence about Fla Jam, although come early fall, if there are a couple tickets to be found, I may just make that trip. If not, I’ll be lookin’ for your report!
Thank you Southernfan what a pleasure to read
Someones truth . It brought tears n chills to read your post
It means so much to the ABB/DB fans .
It’s what I wished I could have experienced n then written about . I’ve got tons in my own private collection of shows
It was the best band ever and the musicians in it
were extraordinary to say the least .
Pedro and Duane are the best , they are welcoming
and dig the profession they are in
Thanks so much
Blue Sky day to all n let your soul shine
[Edited on 5/31/2018 by rainy]
I wish I could have made it to this celebration but it just wasn't in the cards for me now that I have two little kids. I made my pilgrimage to Rose Hill in March 2000 and will never forget it. "serene, historic, moving" ..definitely. One of these years i'll make it back and make my pilgrimage to the Big House.
