The death of Dickey Betts, legendary guitar player and co-founder of the Allman Brothers, one of the most influential bands of their time, shook the music world to the core.

Fans all over the world have been weeping over this heartbreaking loss, and musicians are paying tribute to the musician who inspired them.

His bandmates in the Allman Brothers Band are going through an incredibly hard time right now, and have shared their grief and their love for their long-time bandmate and dear friend.

They put out a statement where they reminisced about Dickey Betts’ career and expressed their condolences to the family.

Allman Brothers Band’s Heartbreaking Statement About Dickey Betts’ Death

The news of Dickey Betts’ passing heavily impacted fans all over the world, but it was especially painful for the Allman Brothers Band members, who received the news today as well.

Immediately after they heard, likely from the family, the same way fans did, they put out a statement, sharing their grief about the loss of their dear friend.

“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,” they wrote.

The band went on to highlight the importance Dickey Betts had for the band and music in general, saying that “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,” they went on. “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.”

The statement concluded with a sweet message that read “Play on Brother Dickey, you will be forever remembered and deeply missed.”

The Announcement Of Dickey Betts’ Passing

Dickey Betts and his family were very careful in keeping the guitarist’s personal life private, which contributed to the shock of the news of his passing that felt sudden for fans. His family announced his death on his official Instagram account, the announcement accompanied by a black and white picture of Dickey Betts when he was young.

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard ‘Dickey’ Betts (December 12, 1943 – April 18, 2024) at the age of 80 years old,” the family wrote.

“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.”

Our hearts go out to the legendary guitarist’s family, friends, and bandmates in their time of grief.