Sad news as classic Rock guitar legend Dickey Betts has died, He was 80 years old, and passed peacefully in his home on April 17th, 2024 after several years of “declining health.” This was according to a press release issued by the band, shared today. Credited along with Duane Allman for developing the twin dueling guitar harmonies and counterpoint that would drive the sound of the band and influence countless other bands and players, Betts wrote some of the band’s most iconic works such as their biggest hit “Ramblin Man, “Jessica,” “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” and many more. Read the full statement from the band below.

A Statement From The Allman Brothers Band On The Passing Of Founding Member Dickey Betts

Forrest Richard “Dickey” Betts

December 12, 1943 – April 17, 2024

1991 Kirk West Photography

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