Joe Bonamassa: A Les Paul-centric tribute to Allman Brothers legend Dickey Betts

For tabs and text of this video lesson, see the October 2024 issue of Guitar World -
TALES FROM NERDVILLE by Joe Bonamassa
PURE GOLD
This past April, we received the sad news of the passing of Dickey Betts, founding member of the Allman Brothers Band and one of the greatest and most lyrical and melodic guitarists of all time. Dickey became a primary inspiration for Joe Bonamassa from a very early age and has remained one of Joe's biggest influences.

Dickey Betts photo by Ed Perlstein/Redferns/Getty Images

#JoeBonamassa #DickeyBetts #allmanbrothers #allmanbrothersband #lespaul #goldtop

[mabulous]

Thanks for this Joe. Dickey is so missed and it's wonderful that you took the time to honor him. His music created the soundtrack for my life. May God bless you.

[JamesWalshBristolKids]

Allman Bros Band…just phenomenal in classic blues, blues rock, country rock, jazz infused blues….and such original twin lead style…they are timeless. They set the bar very high. 5 Stars!

[SicSemperTyrannis]

Thx so much Joe. Bringing bk alot of memories. I was born n raised in Macon, GA which is where the Allman Bros called home too. My Dad was a roadie w em for a time. I saw Dickey at Gregg's funeral. I'm not sure if anyone besides me n my ex wife recognized him. We were graveside while the service was going on. Maybe 50-100 ppl when first arrived. A car pulled up n Dickey got out n looked long and hard at Duane and Berry's graves and the hole that would shortly be Gregg's. He said a prayer quietly and left. I had always hoped for a reunion w the Bros and Dickey but some things might be better left alone. Now they're all at peace except Chuck. Thx again

[bluzzedude]

This is one of the things I've always loved about Joe...he's ALWAYS giving something back. Not only sharing his great talent but always bring others to the front. You're GREAT Joe!

[randyacosta]

Joe, your love of music, and attention to your craft shines through every time.

[danaparsons]

Thanks for acknowleging this great guitarist.

[tallpaul]

You're the BEST Joe thx for the Tribute. Dickie Betts RIP

[ci]

Can I get a big amen for this fine tribute from Joe to Dickie? Rest in peace, Dickie; I'll hear those notes flying off your fingers as long as I live

[timpoe]

Thanks Joe! Dickie Betts was a incredible gifted guitarist that will forever be remembered.

[davidbauer]

Thank you Joe! No one better suited to give a tribute through the guitar than you!

[choppys]

Graduated high school ‘76 in Texas.
The Allman brothers band was it 🏁

[soultoburn]

I'll take all the free mistakes you got!
Dickey is a legend and one of the all-time great guitar players and yet, I think he is still underrated. It's great to see to see another heartfelt tribute.

[edge]

I’ve been a fan of the guitar man in the hat since the beginning. RIP Dickey.

[hectorGomez-yj]

Dreams was my favorite Allman Bros. Tune.

[mjt]

Dickey should go down as one of the greats. A great musician and writer.

[mikeneufeld]

Love this! Couldn’t listen to Joe cop Dickey licks for hours haha. Well done

[brbadge]

I appreciate the knowledge Joe has about that music.A lot folks get the timeline wrong and the importance of who was involved.

[kimlombardy]

Joe you are a genuine human being and God blessed you with talent so use it only for good! We need to bring back a show with you playing with your friends like the old “Darryl’s Place” TV show. I think it would be a hit show! Thanks for coming back to Columbia County, Augusta GA we already have our tickets 👏

[waltsisson]

Thanks for that tribute Joe. We went to see a local band the day after Dickey's passing, they played mostly country blues, and I asked the guitar player on break about Dickey. He almost broke down in tears saying Dickey was a huge influence on him. The band came back on and player Ramblin' Man in memory of Dickey. A truly great evening.

[bfhandsomeface]

Probably my favorite band, just great and musical without massive walls of distortion.