Allman Brothers Band co-founder Butch Trucks dies aged 69

Allman Brothers Band co-founder Butch Trucks dies aged 69

The cause of the death has not been reported, but a statement from his representatives said he died "tragically the night of January 24 in West Palm Beach, Florida," without any additional details.

The statement continued: "The Trucks and Allman Brothers Band families request all of Butch’s friends and fans to please respect our privacy at this time of sadness for our loss. Butch will play on in our hearts forever. Donations and remembrances in Butch’s name may be made to The Big House Museum. All funds will go toward the Trucks’ family’s charity of choice."

Gregg Allman said in a statement that he was "heartbroken." He added, "I've lost another brother and it hurts beyond words. Butch and I knew each other since we were teenagers and we were bandmates for over 45 years. He was a great man and a great drummer and I'm going to miss him forever. Rest In Peace Brother Butch."

Warren Haynes, who played guitar with the Allmans from 1989 to 1997, said on FaceBook that he was “still in shock” at the news of Trucks' passing. “I am truly honored to have played music and shared life with Butch for over 25 years. He was one of a kind as a drummer and as a human being,” said Haynes.

Trucks was born in Jacksonville, Florida in 1947. In 1969, he joined brothers Duane and Gregg Allman who were forming The Allman Brothers Band, alongside guitarist Dickey Betts, bass player Berry Oakley, and second drummer Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson. With their albums Brothers And Sisters, Eat A Peach, and especially the live recording At Fillmore East, the band defined southern rock.

Trucks is the third original member of the band to pass away, following the accidental deaths of Duane Allman and Berry Oakley. He is survived by his wife, four children, and four grandchildren.



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