A Guitar-Slinger Has Gone Up The Trail
One of the great guitar-slingers of all time has gone up the long trail.
Dickey Betts of The Allman Bros. and Great Southern died yesterday, at the age of 80. His family posted a message:
“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 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.”
Dickey Betts penned the Allman Bros. biggest hit, Ramblin’ Man, and his vocals and playing offered a melodic country counterpoint to Gregg Allman’s blues growls and the howl of Duane Allman and eventually Warren Haynes’ slide. I always particularly liked Betts’ contributions, especially Seven Turns.
I also liked Betts’ style. For obvious reasons.
A tip of the hat to a great one — and I hope that he’s jammin’ in Valhalla.