Gregg Allman
Gregg AllmanReuters

The pioneer of the Southern Rock music Gregg Allman has died at the age of 69. According to the singer's website, he passed away peacefully at his home in Savannah Saturday afternoon.

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Gregg, who founded The Allman Brothers Band with his late brother Duane, "struggled with many health issues over the past several years." His website also stated, "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." The Allman Brothers band composed many superhit numbers including "Ramblin Man," "Crazy Love," and "Straight From the Heart".

Allman Brothers Band guitarist Dickey Betts said in a statement: "It's too soon to properly process this. I'm so glad I was able to have a couple good talks with him before he passed. In fact, I was about to call him to check and see how he was when I got the call. It's a very sad day."

Gregg made his solo debut in 1973 with the album titled Laid Back. After that, he also continued to record more solo albums including Gregg Allman Tour (1974) and Playin' Up a Storm (1977) and Two the Hard Way (1977).

Members of The Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman (L), Jaimoe (C) and Butch Trucks (R)
Members of The Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman (L), Jaimoe (C) and Butch Trucks (R)Reuters

Allman's manager, Michael Lehman, said on Saturday: "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.

The death of the legendary musician has led to social media tributes from a bevy of renowned stars including Cher, Chris Evans, Brian Wilson and more. The 70-year-old singer Cher, who was married to Allman from 1975 to 1979, took to Twitter to share messages along with some rare pictures.