The Allman Brothers Band is southern rock & blues-style band from Daytona, Florida that started in 1969. Original members include Gregg Allman on vocals, organand guitar, and his brother Duane Allman on guitar and slide guitar. Dickey Betts plays guitar and slide guitar, Berry Oakley plays bass, with Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny “Jaimoe” Johanson on drums. The band originated the southern rock genre by incorporating blues, jazz and country with jam band style collaboration. Duane Allman passed away from a motorcycle accident in 1971 during the band’s recording of their hit album Eat aPeach. Berry Oakley died only days later from another motorcycle accident. Warren Haynes of Gov’t Mule leant his phenomenal guitar playing during the 2000s, which revamped the band after years of inactivity.
Dickie Betts is known as the unofficial leader of the Allman Brothers Band due to his song writing, singing and guitar playing. He won a Grammy Award for his instrumental performance of “Jessica.” He has a twin harmonic and melodic guitar sound when he plays in collaboration with Gregg. Dickie plays a classic 1961 Gibson SG as a slide guitar, a 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop, and he occasionally plays a Fender Stratocaster. He is also fond of the 1961 Gibson ES-335. In general, Dickie says that he does not like pedals,but he is not opposed to their use. He spends a great deal of time composing, and enjoys impromptu jamming.
Gregg Allman is one of the few musicaians who plays a Hammond organ, as well as sing and play guitar. The acclaimed Fillmore East concert contains the 34 minute “Mountain Jam” that continues to make the band a top concert attraction in the nation. With songs like “Whipping Post,” “Midnight Rider” and “Dreams,” it is no wonder why it is difficult for bands to
sound like The Allman Brothers.
Butch Trucks is known for his conventional, yet powerful beats on Pearle drums. His band mate Jaimoe isknown for his jazz-inspired cymbal playing. These two percussionists combined creates The Allman Brother’ssignature syncopation beats.
Learning how to play like The Allman Brothers may prove difficult for new bands. Beginners can learn to play a basic rendition of any song for a campfire setting. A band that wants to play just like The Allmans will have to include a Hammond organ for many songs. It will be helpful to learn to play slide guitar, develop a jam band ability to improvise notes, and perhaps include a top-notch drummer or two.
Keep Rockin’!!!
