“Dickey was larger than life”: Allman Brothers Founder Dickey Betts Dies at 80 After Battling Two Different Cancers

The world of rock and roll is in mourning after losing a true legend that was founding member of the iconic Allman Brothers band, Dickey Betts. The Ramblin’ Man singer died at the age of 80 at his home in Osprey, Florida. This was announced to the public on Betts’ official website in a statement by his family.
Dickey Betts | Source: dickeybettsofficial on Instagram
Betts left an indelible mark on the music industry. A virtuoso guitarist, his distinctive style defined the Southern rock genre in the 1960s and 70s. In 2000, Betts was asked to leave the Allman Brothers band due to continued drug and alcohol use which seemed to overshadow his contributions. The musician passed away recently. He was suffering from two kinds of cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Dickey Betts’ Passed Away at the Age of 80

Dickey Betts | Source: dickeybettsofficial on Instagram
The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s family posted on his website the following statement announcing his death:

“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.”

His manager, David Spero, said in a statement to Rolling Stone magazine (via New York Times) that the cause of the singer’s death was cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Spero told NPR:

“He was such a giving man. He took time with his fans. He’d sign anything. He posed for every picture.”

After the demise of Duane Allman in 1971, the band saw new heights under Betts’ leadership as the next album Eat A Peach was critically acclaimed and earned the fourth spot on the Billboard charts. Betts was a guiding light in the band after Duane Allman’s death and really shaped their sound as millions have come to love it. He will be remembered for his contributions to music and also as a kind and giving soul.

Dickey Betts And The Allman Brothers Band

The Allman Brothers Band | Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dickey Betts collaborated with the brothers Duane and Gregg Allman in his pursuit of a music career. And in the late 60s Florida, The Allman Brothers band was founded. Bett was the lead guitarist and took on vocals and songwriting from time to time.

The band made their breakthrough in 1971, by live releasing At Fillmore East. Later that year, Duane Allman tragically died in a motorcycle accident. This kind of thrusted Betts more into the spotlight. Unfortunately, band member Berry Oakley who was the bassist of the band also passed away in a motorcycle accident just a couple of blocks from the site of Allman’s death.

The way Betts worked with Duane Allman, who also played guitar for the band, was unprecedented in the realm of rock music. Two exceedingly skilled guitarists joined forces to introduce a twin guitar harmony in the rock genre.

The band was reluctant to record Ramblin’ Man which went on to become their probably the most popular song. Betts wrote and recorded it, and not only did it become their only song to rank in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Hot 100 charts, but became a staple track in the rock genre.