Allman Brothers Co-Founder Dicky Betts Dead At 80

Dicky Betts, a co-founder the Allman Brothers Band, died Thursday in Osprey, Florida, at the age of 80.

In an Instagram post, the Betts family wrote, “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,” they added.

Betts was a co-founding member of The Allman Brothers band alongside brothers Duane and Gregg Allman, Butch Trucks, Jaimoe Johanson, and Berry Oakley.

When Duane Allman was killed in a motorcycle crash in 1971, Betts assumed the role of the group’s lead guitarist and also took over more of a singing role.

Betts was the writer and singer on the Allmans’ hit single “Ramblin’ Man.” He also gained renown for composing instrumentals, with one appearing on most of the group’s albums, including “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” and “Jessica” (which was later used as the theme to Top Gear).

The band went through a hiatus in the late 1970s, during which time Betts, like many of the other band members, pursued a solo career and side projects under such names as Great Southern and The Dickey Betts Band.