Dickey Betts (1943-2024) is dead. The legendary guitarist, who was also one of the founding members of The Allman Brothers Band, died on April 18th in the US state of Florida. The band announces this on their homepage, among other things.

The southern rock institution's website states that the group learned of the death of its founding member "with deep sadness." After a period of declining health, Betts passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 80.

"His exceptional guitar playing alongside guitarist Duane Allman created a unique, two-guitar sound that became the hallmark of the genre known as Southern Rock," the band concludes. Betts not only wrote hits like "Ramblin' Man", "Blue Sky" and "Jessica", but was also a passionate person throughout his life, be it in areas such as "music, songwriting, fishing, hunting, boating, golf , karate or [also] boxing". He now joins previous band and crew members such as Duane Allman (1946-1971) "in the old Winnebago in the sky, touring the world and bringing their music to anyone who will listen."

The family of the deceased confirmed Betts' death in a statement that read, among other things: "Dickey was larger than life and his loss will be felt worldwide." The relatives ask for prayers and respect for their privacy during the difficult time of saying goodbye. Further information will be provided at a later date.