In a devastating loss for the music industry, renowned guitarist and co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band, Dickey Betts, has peacefully passed away at the age of 77. The news was confirmed by his family in a statement shared with CNN. Betts was surrounded by loved ones at his home in Osprey, FL at the time of his passing.

Dickey Betts, affectionately known as the "legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch," was an influential figure in shaping the sound of Southern rock in the 1960s and 1970s. Born in West Palm Beach, Florida, Betts drew inspiration from bluegrass, country music, and ultimately rock and roll.

Betts, along with bass guitarist Berry Oakley, drummers Butch Trucks and Jaimoe, and brothers Gregg and Duane Allman, formed the iconic Allman Brothers Band in 1969. Together, they defined the Southern rock genre, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

One of Betts' most notable contributions to the band was his songwriting and vocals on their biggest hit, "Ramblin' Man." Surprisingly, he had initially intended the song for Johnny Cash, but the producer persuaded him to keep it for the Allman Brothers Band. Other notable songs penned by Betts include "Blue Sky" and "Jessica."

Sadly, tragedy struck the band with the untimely deaths of Duane Allman in a motorcycle accident in 1971 and Berry Oakley in a similar accident a year later. Betts and Gregg Allman assumed leadership of the band, but creative differences and substance abuse led to multiple breakups and reunions over the years.

In 2000, Betts famously left the Allman Brothers Band in a widely publicized split. Although the band continued touring for another 15 years and released one more studio album, Betts pursued his passion with his own group, the Great Southern, featuring his son Duane. He also released another studio album during his career and eventually retired in 2014.

The Allman Brothers Band expressed their appreciation for Betts' exceptional guitar playing and acknowledged the unique dual guitar signature sound he created alongside Duane Allman. Their statement highlighted Betts' passion for various pursuits, such as fishing, hunting, boating, golf, karate, and boxing.

When reflecting on his love for music, Betts once mentioned in an interview that he found joy in witnessing how his audience connected with the music. He took delight in seeing concertgoers transport themselves to another world through his performances.

Dickey Betts leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be remembered as a true icon in the music industry. As the world mourns his passing, the Betts family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them and to all those whose lives were touched by the extraordinary talent of Dickey Betts.