The music world is in mourning. We have lost yet another talented rock icon, Gregg Allman. From discovering and maintaining a genre-defining band and widely successful solo career, to overcoming challenging circumstances, Gregg Allman will be remembered for many years to come. He created a sound that has influenced generations of musicians and his music will continue to be an inspiration to all musicians and fans.

Gregg, born in 1947, and his late brother Duane, were two traditional southern boys - born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, then relocating to Jacksonville, Florida. The musical sounds that resonated in the southern states were unlike anything else happening in other areas of the country. Various elements of country, gospel, and blues music were prominent around the Allman brothers, allowing them “to draw on a spectrum of sounds and different emotions.” Gregg was able to blend all of these elements, coupled with tragic early-life situations, and create a powerful, soulful voice that is instantly recognizable.

Gregg Allman’s songwriting, Hammond Organ chops, and distinct voice helped to shape the sound of the iconic Allman Brothers Band that was around for nearly 55 years. On top of all of the contributions to the Allman Brothers Band, Gregg also had a very successful solo career, releasing seven albums between 1973 and 2017. He was faced with many difficulties, but for him, “there was always music, I played for a peace of mind.”

Gregg Allman passed away on May 27th, 2017 in his home in Savannah, Georgia. Since then, there has been an outpouring of admiration and tributes to the great musicians, as he inspired countless individuals throughout his life. Singer and songwriter Jackson Brown remembers Gregg Allman as “one of the most gifted singers in the last 50 years” as he remembers writing and recording songs with his fellow musician. “He was a blues singer first, and he was so natural and so soulful.” Past Allman Brothers Band members offered “separate tributes to their friend.” Warren Haynes with his band Gov’t Mule played through several “emotional” Allman tunes at their Summer Camp Music Festival. When asked about his releationship with Gregg, Warren noted that, “He went out of his way to make me feel comfortable, from the very beginning. That was his nature.” Derek Trucks, nephew of the late drummer Butch Trucks paid tribute to his fellow band mate with the Allman Brothers’ tune “Ain’t Wastin No More Time” at a show in Jacksonville, Florida.

Also, jam band Umphrey’s McGee played an instrumental tribute to Gregg, as he had a very large impact on their sound. Even Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys spoke out about the immense influence Gregg Allman had on him and his musical direction. “The Allman Brothers were part of my childhood and DNA. Gregg’s voice definitely influenced the way I sing. It is a foundation of what I do.” A lot of other musicians have been continually expressing gratitude for the musician and sorrow for his passing.

Blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa mentioned, “My first concert in 1983 was Gregg Allman. I am so very saddened to hear of Gregg’s passing. One of a kind voice and musician.” Gregg was even a featured musician on Bonamassa’s debut album A New Day Yesterday. He provided vocals and played keyboards on the track “If Heartaches Were Nickels.” The tune was written by fellow Allman Brothers’ member Warren Haynes and the album was produced by Tom Dowd, who produced many landmark albums, including multiple Allman Brothers’ albums like At Fillmore East.

This news will continue to shake the music community and impact people for quite some time. Although he is gone, his music will always be relevant and inspire future generations. Rest in peace, Gregg Allman.