With deep sadness the Allman Brothers Band learned today that founding member Dickey Betts has passed away peacefully in his home in Sarasota, Florida, following a period of declining health.
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.
Betts joins his brothers, Duane Allman, Berry Oakley, Butch Trucks and Gregg Allman, as well as ABB crew members Twiggs Lyndon, Joe Dan Petty, Red Dog, Kim Payne and Mike Callahan in that old Winnebago in the sky touring the world taking their music to all who will listen.
Our condolences to his immediate family, Donna, Duane & Lisa, Christy & Frank, Jessica, and Kim.
Play on Brother Dickey, you will be forever remembered and deeply missed.
Allman Brothers Band, Family, and Crew
Photo (c) 1991 Kirk West Photograph
From the Betts Family
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. 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.
4 Responses
RIP Dicky….. you will be missed
So sad to hear the news. The greats ones are leaving us more and more often.
“Jessica” is very close to my heart, as that’s the name of our oldest. When we found out we were having a girl, I called the radio station and made a request.
Play on, Dickey. No one can stop you now, but I guess Duane might want a solo or two as you jam in the great gig in the sky.
My heart is crying ……..
R.I.P. Dickey. I will always remember you and your music for helping me during a crucial time in my life of great upheaval. Thank you for the guitar pick you gave me out of the watch pocket of your jeans when I met you. But most of all, thanks for the music.