Gregg Allman, co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band, dead at 69

Gregg Allman, who along with his older brother Duane co-founded the legendary ’70s rock band The Allman Brothers, has died. He was 69.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce that Gregg Allman, a founding member of The Allman Brothers Band, passed away peacefully at his home in Savannah, Georgia,” according to a statement posted on his website. “Gregg struggled with many health issues over the past several years. During that time, Gregg considered being on the road playing music with his brothers and solo band for his beloved fans, essential medicine for his soul. Playing music lifted him up and kept him going during the toughest of times.”

Born in 1947, Allman began performing music as a teenager. He played in several bands with Duane before the creation of their eponymous band in 1969. The Allman Brothers Band were instrumental in pioneering the 1970s Southern Rock sound, which drew from both the country and blues influences of the region. The group developed a devoted following through its innovative, jam-filled live performances and such classics as Midnight Rider, Melissa and Whipping Post.

Although the band broke up in the late ’70s, they ended up reforming several times over the years to tour and record new material.  In 1995, Allman and his bandmates were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Gregg Allman dies at the age of 69. (AP/MediaPunch)

Gregg’s long-time manager and close friend, Michael Lehman said, “I have lost a dear friend and the world has lost a brilliant pioneer in music. He was a kind and gentle soul with the best laugh I ever heard. His love for his family and bandmates was passionate as was the love he had for his extraordinary fans. Gregg was an incredible partner and an even better friend. We will all miss him.”

Gregg is survived by his wife, Shannon Allman, his children, Devon, Elijah Blue, Delilah Island Kurtom and Layla Brooklyn Allman; 3 grandchildren, his niece, Galadrielle Allman, lifelong friend Chank Middleton, and a large extended family. The family will release a statement soon, but for now ask for privacy during this very difficult time.

The family suggests that tributes to Gregg can be made to the Gregg Allman Scholarship Fund at The University of Georgia or the Allman/Lehman Endowed Scholarship at Syracuse University.

Rest in peace, Gregg.

Catch the SiriusXM Town Hall with Gregg Allman on Classic Vinyl (Ch. 26.): Sunday 5/28 at 12 pm ET & Monday 5/29 at 4 pm ET.

Additionally, Jam On (Ch.29) will be airing the final Allman Brothers concert from 10/28/14 at the Beacon Theatre. Hear it Sunday 5/28 at 11 am & 8 pm ET; Monday 5/29 at 1 pm & 9 pm ET; Wednesday 5/31 at Noon ET; and Friday 6/2 at 3 pm ET.