Guitar legend Dickey Betts, co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band and writer of 'Ramblin' Man,' has passed away at 80 after battling cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He was surrounded by family and left a lasting legacy in Southern rock music.
Key Points
Co-founded the Allman Brothers Band and helped create the genre of Southern rock
Influenced by blues, country, R&B, and jazz, the Allmans combined these genres with rock
Had a tumultuous history with the band, including clashes and substance abuse issues
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award in 2012
Pros
Dickey Betts was a pioneering figure in Southern rock music
He co-founded the Allman Brothers Band and wrote their biggest hit 'Ramblin' Man'
His guitar playing and songwriting influenced many artists in the music industry
Cons
Betts battled cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease before his passing