Dickey Betts onstage in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1975

Dickey Betts, an iconic figure in the world of music, passed away at his home in Osprey, Florida, on Thursday at the age of 80. His manager, David Spero, confirmed that Betts had been valiantly battling cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for over a year. Betts, renowned for his role as a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, died surrounded by his family, in what Spero described as a peaceful passing without pain.

From humble beginnings, Betts truly embodied the spirit of a “ramblin’ man.” He left home at just 16 to join the circus, marking the start of an adventurous and storied life. His journey led him to the Allman Brothers Band, where he not only played lead guitar alongside Duane Allman but also penned the band’s biggest hit, “Ramblin’ Man.” This song, among others, helped cement the band’s place in music history and propelled Betts into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Betts was instrumental in shaping the band’s signature sound, a dynamic blend of blues, country, R&B, and jazz with ’60s rock, creating the Southern rock genre. This unique sound left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing a plethora of major acts including Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, Phish, Jason Isbell, and Chris Stapleton.

Tributes poured in from musicians and fans alike. Blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa recalled his first concert experience watching Dickey Betts perform in 1983, an event that profoundly influenced his musical career and his choice of the electric guitar. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Bonamassa credited Betts with inspiring his love for the Les Paul guitar model, a testament to Betts’ enduring impact on the world of music.