On This Day in 2017, Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band Passed Away Due to Complications from Cancer
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Remembering a Southern Rock Pioneer
On May 27, 2017, Gregg Allman, a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, died at his home in Savannah, Georgia, at age 69. His death was due to complications from liver cancer, a condition he had battled for several years. Allman’s passing marked the end of a significant chapter in American rock music. Known for his soulful voice and mastery of the Hammond organ, he played a crucial role in shaping the Southern rock genre. His contributions to music were widely recognized, with numerous tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Throughout his career, Allman faced several health challenges. He was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2007, which he believed was contracted from a tattoo needle. In 2010, he underwent a successful liver transplant. Despite these setbacks, Allman continued to perform and record music, demonstrating his dedication to his craft. His resilience and passion for music remained evident until his final days.
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A Legacy of Music and Influence
The Allman Brothers Band, co-founded by Gregg and his brother Duane in 1969, became a cornerstone of Southern rock. Their blend of blues, jazz, and country elements created a unique sound that resonated with a wide audience. The band’s live performances were particularly renowned, with extended improvisational jams that showcased their musical prowess. Albums like “At Fillmore East” captured the energy and spontaneity of their concerts, earning critical acclaim.
Over the years, the Allman Brothers Band released several successful albums. Fourteen of their studio albums reached the Billboard 200 chart, and eleven singles made it onto the Billboard Hot 100. Songs like “Ramblin’ Man” and “Midnight Rider” became staples of classic rock radio. Even after the band’s initial breakup in the 1970s, they reunited multiple times, continuing to draw large audiences. Their influence can be seen in numerous artists who cite them as an inspiration.
Final Works and Farewell
In the years leading up to his death, Allman continued to create music. His final studio album, “Southern Blood,” was recorded with producer Don Was at FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The album was completed shortly before his passing and released posthumously on September 8, 2017. It received positive reviews for its introspective lyrics and heartfelt performances. The album served as a fitting farewell, encapsulating Allman’s reflections on life and mortality.
Allman’s funeral was held on June 3, 2017, at Snow’s Memorial Chapel in Macon, Georgia. He was laid to rest at Rose Hill Cemetery, beside his brother Duane and fellow band member Berry Oakley. The service was attended by family, friends, and notable figures, including former President Jimmy Carter and ex-wife Cher. Fans lined the streets to pay their respects, many wearing Allman Brothers Band shirts and playing the band’s music. The outpouring of love and admiration highlighted the profound impact Allman had on the music world.
