I have always preferred Dickie’s playing over Duane’s. They had similar styles but I loved his repetitive licks and that clean middle position LP tone. He played so fluently the notes just blended together. Brothers and Sisters was also my intro to the Allman Bros.
Dickie is wonderful in his own right, having written some iconic tunes. His energy really carried the band and the music during an incredibly difficult time while Gregg was a basket case after his brother's tragic and untimely death. But IMO, there would be no Dickie without Duane. While there were many talented southern rock guitar players, IMO, none of them came close to Duane's genius. He was ~ three weeks short of his 25th birthday when he died in 1971; an incredible musical accomplishment for such a young person who had been playing guitar for about 10 years! So I must respectfully disagree with your opinion. There are countless excellent guitarists, but Duane was a special musical talent, a rare innovator. IMO, it was Duane's concept and energy the put the Allmans on the map; Dickie helped continue their popularity with solid songs and playing.
I don't think I've ever heard Betts play middle position. It's always rhythm position. And I agree, Dickey was a much more melodic player and musician than Duane was, but Duane was a sultry, stinging player. I think "Get Back" is one of his most quintessential encapsulations of his style.
Great video which I found this day after Dickey died. The Brothers music has brought untold joy to my life! I went to over a 100 concerts put on by various members of the band. Just incredible emotion! Rest in eternity Dickey Betts! By the way, your playing at the end of the video was amazing! Loved it.
Few players can move me, really only a handful. I’ve seen Dickey and the ABB live more times than I care to count, and each time I’ve seen them, Dickey took me places not many players can. After Dickey was let go, I saw him at a show at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park NJ. After the show, he was signing autographs at his bus, so I grabbed a Strat I had in my car and took it over to him. When I met him he signed the Strat, I then thanked him for all the beautiful music he gave us, he was sitting on the steps of the bus at that time, when I thanked him, he stood up and gave me a hug and thanked me for being at the show. Dickey has a reputation of being a curmudgeon at times, I found him to be most gracious. Nice job with the video Mark, you nailed Dickey’s sound! Btw, everyone talks about Duane’s work on the Fillmore album, Dickey was on fire when that was recorded, “You Don’t Love Me” is a prime example of some of the finest guitar work recorded live ever. Thanks for this Mark! PS: did you have a chance to check out Alvin Lee’s outro solo on Bluest Blues, I’m wondering what your take is.
Wow, what an amazing comment!! Such a great story to tell of the man. I've heard Andy Aledort tell some funny, but also touching "Dickie stories" too. I think it shows that reputations, even if earned, are not always real. Letting people know we care, and of course the act of caring itself, is such an important part of being human. I think you rose to that occasion my friend and Dickie saw it. BTW, totally agree with you on "You Don't Love Me". Duane is my all-time favorite, but Dickie is *WAY* up there too. Both at once is just mindblowingly good. Add the rest of the band with Gregg's penchant for writing wistful songs that still drive and you've got something that only came along once. Thanks for the kind words about my sound as well. I'm only imitating the master here. So to any extent that I sound good it's due to Dickie doing it in the first place! Yes, I listened to Bluest Blues! Loved it. Much more to my taste than "I'm Going Home" actually. Alvin's singing is good in it too, as is the slide solo. That solo at the end is great how it builds and builds. Thanks for turning me on to it!!
@@MarkZabel you’re very welcome Sir! Bluest is more to my taste also. Harrison’s slide solo is very tasty, not over done and fits the song perfectly. Again Mark, thanks for this channel, I thoroughly enjoy it!
@@edge1289 The work Dickie did with Warren Hanes in the late 80's to me was the apex of dual, complementary lead work by 2 master's that I've ever heard, live or otherwise.
I can tell you what I think about the "outro", on the "Bluest Blues" Alvin Lee is and was super underrated. His guitar playing the tone was special he was a little weak on vocals, maybe it was ego, but on the strings he was at the top of the game. I love his sound as a kid I grew up on Alvin Lee, ha... I'm still a kid, but I play guitar, dad told me Alvin Lee inspired him to learn guitar, and yep dad has inspired me to play guitar.
@@bigjohnson7415 agreed, as I said above, I’ve seen them more times than I care to count. Have you seen any of the shows with Jackie Pearson? Awesome player!
First time I ever heard the Allmans was "Ramblin Man" on the AM radio when I was a kid in the 70's. I thought those sweet solos of Dickie's were the best guitar I'd ever heard. They are still in my top 10
YES! Thank you for showcasing Dickey!! His blues, bluegrass and Western swing styles are amazing! Not to mention his singing and songwriting. Saw the ABB in the 90’s a couple of times. Greggs voice was blown out one night so It turned into the Dickey Betts show! So amazing and an unforgettable night!
It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing and Betts has it in spades. Mix that with Duane's Coricidin craziness and it's lightening in a bottle. ( unintentional bad pun) I just found your site today and I like the subject & simple breakdowns so I subbed. Thanks for taking the time to do this.
Duane said, "Watch out for Dickie Betts!" He's not just smooth - he's full of fire, too! Listen to his sensational lead break on "Trouble No More" from the "Live At the Fillmore East" album.
Mark, you really nailed his style perfectly. I was a big fan of the Allman Brothers Band and I always preferred Dickie’s “countrified” style more than Duane’s bluesy style. It was his songs which attracted me to the band. Thanks for the lesson Mark.
Absolutely! I would go so far as to say that Blue Sky may be the most beautiful song ever written! When I first heard that song I couldn’t get enough and although I don’t play it 50 times in a row anymore I will still play it twice!
I can only guess that my computer got sick of listening to me stumbling over these lines. I never said a word, but here you are #1 on my feed, answering all of those scale and harmony questions that have been keeping me, and my wife, up at night. SUBSCRIBED!!!!
I'm a saxophone player but I love the guitar. I've learned other instruments but the guitar is my nemesis. I can't play it to save my life. Maybe chords, but lead lines are not happening. Out of frustration I began to play saxophone along the records of the solos I love. This song translates so well and it also helped improve my breathing for playing. Just brilliant.
I read the liner notes to my CD of Miles Davis's "Kind of Blue", and a large part of the writing was about Duane Allman! Obviously it was to a later version of the Miles Davis classic record, but I was surprised at the references to Duane.
Well done Mark A great presentation! Unfortunately Dickie doesnt get enough recognition for his wonderful melodies. To me he was the ultimate player in the Allmans l too fell in love with the iconic album Brothers and Sisters particularly Jessica and Ramblin man.A great example of Southern country rock.
Great short but distinct capsule into this oft somewhat under rated fantastic musician and guitarist, M.Z.! Like you........I really came into Allmanland with the 'Brothers & Sisters' album (I believe it is Butch Truck's son on the cover as I recall) and was hooked by Dickie's style! I believe every serious soloing guitarist owes it to themselves to study Bett's unique style if for no other reason than this is proof that we shouldn't just copy other's styles but make our own. You've certainly given a great introduction into doing just that here!! Jim C.
Yes, at first I didn't quite grasp that the guy on Jessica wasn't Duane, because I really didn't know the timeline and the motorcycle crash and stuff. (I was 5 when that happened and my parents were not into rock, so I had no idea.) I think a friend corrected me later on that. And *that's* when I heard Filmore East. Duane on "Stormy Monday" still blows me away, but Dickie's play throughout is amazing too. All the early ABB albums still hold up very well IMHO. Some of the best stuff out there.
With you, Mark. Dickey had to raise the bar when Duane passed and I believe made a commitment to take the band to great heights. Gregg signed up and really was a great partner, and together they were able to complete their mission together with Duane smiling over them. Eat a Peach put the icing on the cake for both of them.
@@MarkZabel like you, he is my favorite of them all. I love swing, country and Django.....in that order. Dickey is so tuned into swing that he got in my blood early. I'm a Jersey musician with swing/southern roots due to my love of this guy. One of a kind and the biggest influence on me in my musical journey.
Bro amazing once again! The first video I ever watched you on was your incredible lesson on the Knack solo for My Sharona. I immediately had to click on,and subscribe. Just watching the expression’s on you’re face and seeing the joy in you’re eyes as you teach us these jaw dropping solo’s and licks! I can’t personally thank you enough! Another favorite was your solo on Love Gun. Thank you for your awesome teaching style! Always a huge fan Christian.
I used to see them at a local club in Jacksonville FL in 1969 before they were known outside of the S.E. and it was obvious that they were a very special group of musicians. 😊
You nailed this. I tripped over this / stumbled upon it a few decades ago long before I even knew what notes I was playing. It just felt natural and it flowed. Thanks for showing the flexibility of his style. His free spirit shines thru his picking.
I hope someone knows this and can answer my question. About 50 years ago I was present for a Johnny Russell concert. He brought a guitar picker with him he called the "wild man." He introduced him by name and I think it was Dickey Betts. He had a string bender mounted on the strings above the nut. A rod ran down the neck of the guitar parallel to the big E string. He used his thumb to push the rod and he got some wild sounds from his guitar. He was a show all to himself with that guitar. I have searched YT but I haven't found anything. Any body ever seen or heard of this guitar man? Thanks.
You're so good at that. I've been playing a bit since I was 13, and im pushing 70 now. Life gets in the way, but you have a knack for lighthearted instruction. It's something I've always aspired to, and, arthritis notwithstanding, I'm going to try this. Even if I don't get it completely down right away, I know I have learned more than I have so far. Really late to the party, but thanks
Hey Mark, I realize this tasty nugget of Dickey Betts solo ideas is over two years old but I just wanted to tell you I appreciate it. I've been working on a bunch of Allman Brothers classics so this obviously popped up in my feeds thanks to you :)
Hey Mark! I’ve watched a bunch of your videos, and they’re ALL great, but for me, this one is your best!!! I am going to really study what you showed. Dickie Betts: KILLER guitarist!
Like you, Brothers and Sisters was the Allman's album that really resonated with me. It was the upbeat groove of Jessica that won me over my first year out of high school. I was stationed in South Korea so it always reminds me of those days and the good times we had.
Hey Mark. I know this is blasphemy but I've always thought Dickie had more creative lines. Frankie Lombardi played drums in one of my old cover bands in CT. Frankie was Dickie's guitar tech with the Allman Bros and played drums for the Dickie Betts Band. Great drummer and humble guy. He told us some crazy stories about Dickie and the Bros. One being that when Dickie was finally fired from the ABB the news came via fax. Anyway, great job as always on the video. -Mark
Hey Man!! Great comment, though I don't agree with you if you're talking about Duane in the creativity department. No matter though, as both were the real deal, so it's personal preference - not blasphemy! LOL! Geez! Getting fired by FAX? That's kind of sh*%%&. I imagine that must have been tough. Makes for a good story though. Thanks for sharing!
I also would agree. Duane might have been more expressive with his slide playing but strictly melody and writing wise Dicky was definitely better. Also those harmonies I can just tell Dicky had a big part in writing both parts. Dicky has a melodic style that sounds like nobody else. One of my favorite Allman Brothers lineups is with Jack Pearson and Dicky Betts. Jack Pearson is another brilliant guitarist that goes under the radar because of the huge amount of talented guitarists who played in the allman brothers over the years.
"I'm the famous guitar-player; Dickie is the great guitar-player..." --Dwayne Allman Do you know, the first 'Ramblin Man' solo (good job btw) was played by Les Dudek. That's when Dickie is heard, "Allll riight(!)"
Dickie Betts puts a lot of nature references in his songwriting (Let Nature Sing, Bougainvillea, Blue Skies, etc). I like his guitar picking style too, but his songwriting is a breath of fresh air. Thanks for the video.
Great video, Mark! I love Dickie Betts. I think he’s a great player to study and learn licks because his melodies add a uniquely major scale, upbeat feel to rock that fit really well alongside the Page, Clapton, Angus rock blues licks that we all absorb naturally over decades of listening. I can’t think of anyone else in rock who plays like him? Maybe Jerry Garcia kind of?
I remember Greg Allman talking about how he and Duane put the Allmans together and Duane said, "we need a lead guitarist", Greg said "what are you?' Duane said, "yeah but this guy is great also". I actually paraphrasing not quoting but you get the point!
This is so funny, about a month ago I decided I really should focus some jamming/practicing time to major pentatonic but I'd always catch myself throwing in the 4th.
I've gotten to see them live many times and was backstage a few times but during that period (early 1990s) Dickey was frequently in trouble and he was never around much when I went backstage. I bought a PRS back then after seeing Dickie switch to them from Les Pauls..
Great lesson! Looking at these comments, I'll never understand why people always have to say "this guitar player is BETTER than that guitar player". Dickie isn't trying to be Duane. Sports are a "competition". Music is not. The beauty of music is that we all approach it in our own way. Some people can actually enjoy Dickie's playing without "voting" on who is "better". One of the many things that made ABB such a GREAT band is the fact that Duane & Dickie had completely different styles, and that's actually ok.
Thanks Ric! Yeah, I'm not sure, but I think it's a fairly common thing to compare people and ultimately seek to rank somehow. I love both Duane and Dickie and agree that their differences made their sum greater in the ABB music. I have my tastes and preferences though for sure. Not only here, but in jazz, R&B, classical and so forth. And you know, even in sports it's tough because there exist plenty of different ways of looking at a rank. Was Pele better than Maradona? Mays better than Ruth? Brady better than Montana? Chamberlain better than Jordan? People still debate these things even though there are fairly objective measures to use. I think it's fun to contrast their styles, but both Dickie and Duane brought unique gifts to the table. Thanks for your comment!
Hello; Good job really. we can feel that you really like Dickie Betts!! Beside your demo shows you as a very nice person. it gives the envy to meet and jam. Cheers from France
oh MAN,,,,without FE, Black Sabbath and Mountain Climbing, who know.s Always wanted to play guitar. Reunion band bit in '05 was great. Tune on the set was Ramblin' Man, harmony and the LD lead my band mate. Slayed it. Now, Jessica shows almost every time i pick up a guitar. As much as i loved Duane's playing, Dickie was so important. 'Can't Lose What You Never Had" ;) Love this solo.
After Duane's untimely and sad passing they subbed Chris Haynes and Derek Trucks (nephew of the drummer). You can always tell Derek's licks as he has a signature rake.
I like the way you explained, and wrote out the major pentatonic"scale, position #2, after showing minor pentatonic. I think you just opened a door for me? So I will subscribe. Thanks, Steve.
Both musicians unique & remarkable player's, huge part of Southern Rock sound, style & pure essence. Great lesson 👍 & livestream today Mark ( I wish that guy who popped in last sec who said he couldn't play as well as us would have said something sooner, I'm lucky to punch this song out using scales😅 Thanks again Mark! That was alot of fun. 🖤 Kris IL 🦋
did not know about hexatonic but fun, I can see it being named how it was. So just add the fourth to the major penta scale. Another note: raising 3rd to fourth makes it a C maj penta and kind of has that effect on the G chord, sounding very ramblin manish. Had another idea making a pentatonic thats exotic harmonic minor is just a raised 5th so just raising the 5th is a bit interesting.
I have been in search of this kind of break down, I too have loved Dicky Betts style and sometimes while playing along with the song find the groove, Blue Sky is the song that got me the most, that I have worked the hardest on to get Dicky playinh style. The intro and lead while they were in Germany I believe to be one of the best leads ever played, like his prime. There is another guy who played with them when for a short time can't remember his name, he is a jazz guy wore a French burea hat and coveralls. He played a strat, dqmb wish I could remember, he actually pushed Dicky on stage to pull out his best, Dicky stated the guy was a better quitarest, but I believe he challenged Dicky to new heights within his style, to me yes the guy was great but he was a jazz player, that new how to lead that style over lay, he would do Duane's part, Dicky had been Duanes partner together created the essence of the entire sound as a team that is the sound of the Allman. Brothers Band, like Warren Hains learned all the Duane leads, took time but was actually truly in the original spirit and sound of the original sound, the jazz guy was a great alteration similar in spirit but Warren was on the money as he improved had the groove to my ear at least.
Excellent info dude, thanks! If you haven't heard it yet, the Live At Winterland version of this song was on the super deluxe edition of Brothers and Sisters, and in my opinion has the best live southern rock solos ever taped. I love Duane going off on Blue Sky live as much as the next person, but you could feel the mourning Dickey had (In my opinion) in his bones from losing his friend and bandmate just two years prior.
And I too am a huge fan of Dickie Betts sound. He was a co-author in defining modern southern rock. Actually can hear the connection back to guys like Joe Maphis. Real country!
I just realized something about Betts, thanks to your breaking it out; You once said that a good lead needs elements of composition, and one good technique was the sax-breath time limit. But Betts broke that rule, in spades! But it didn't sound like a broken rule, not all. But you played the lead as if the doubling back was.... taking that next breath. A breath taken while the swimming is still going on.
Dwayne was an excellent slide man,,,,can't take that from him,,,Now Dickey,,,could play a solo for days and never bore you ! Lol ! What a pair of Aces !!! 😂✌️✝️💕🎸🎶💕🎶💕🎶💕
Once I noticed the reflection on the pickup covers, I couldn't look away. 1. Please sweat on those a little so I can take in the video properly and 2. What do you use to clean those things? Seriously, either that's a brand new guitar or you're Mr. Clean. If you could share your cleaning tricks AND the hexotonic scale, that'd be great. :D
@@MarkZabel I think this is a sponsorship opportunity for you. If there's a commercial product you use to clean those pickups, I'd buy it. ;D Also: I've watched a few of your videos at this point. Good stuff.
Duane is probably my all-time favorite, but nothing to complain about with Dickie. Nothing at all. Dickie was more linear and probably a better technical player. Both had that drive in their play that makes The Allman Brothers music stand out. It's all good!
@@MarkZabel Absolutely right. It's a bit pointless getting into arguments about who was best. Every player who was in the Allmans stood out as being fantastic in their own right and it really just comes down to personal preference rather than who was better. I'm also very fond of Jack Pearson, not least because of his laid back and humble demeanour. Monster player too.
Great stuff as always.Like you, I first got into the Allman Bros after hearing Brothers and Sisters.Whereas I appreciate Duane's ability I always preferred Dicke's l playing.Living in England there was not much chance to see the Brothers but I did get to see them in 1973 with Dickey on guitar and again in 1990 with Dickey and Warren.I believe the quote from Duane goes something like this, "There are two guitar players in the band.I am the famous one and Dickey is the good one!"
@@calumm8639 I was at a show during the Brothers annual March run at the Beacon Theatre in NYC. I’m guessing it was around 98 or 99 after Warren and Allen left to do Govt Mule full time. I was a bit bummed that Warren was gone and had no idea who Jackie Pearson was. As the show progressed, it wasn’t hard to tell what an awesome player Jack is, during the second set the band pulled out Call it Stormy Monday, one of my favorites. Jack took the first solo and blew the roof completely off the Beacon that night, I’ve been a fan ever since! I wish he’d do some shows up here in the north east.
Have u counted the # of different guitar traks (not counting bass) ? I'm thinking 7 maybe 8 . The real # could be different . Those guys will always b #1 to me .
Thanks for the treat, my man... I'm a big Dickey Betts fan.
My pleasure. Always happy to play some Dickey Betts - one of my favorites. Thanks for watching!
Dickey was the heart of the Allman Brothers.
Precisely. We are so fortunate to see him evolve beyond the early 70s.
I have always preferred Dickie’s playing over Duane’s. They had similar styles but I loved his repetitive licks and that clean middle position LP tone. He played so fluently the notes just blended together. Brothers and Sisters was also my intro to the Allman Bros.
Thanks for your comment! While I don't share your preference, I understand it. Both were unique players with phenomenal emotive abilities.
you have got to be the only one
@@davidrice3337
No lm another massive Betts fan
Dickie is wonderful in his own right, having written some iconic tunes. His energy really carried the band and the music during an incredibly difficult time while Gregg was a basket case after his brother's tragic and untimely death. But IMO, there would be no Dickie without Duane. While there were many talented southern rock guitar players, IMO, none of them came close to Duane's genius. He was ~ three weeks short of his 25th birthday when he died in 1971; an incredible musical accomplishment for such a young person who had been playing guitar for about 10 years! So I must respectfully disagree with your opinion. There are countless excellent guitarists, but Duane was a special musical talent, a rare innovator. IMO, it was Duane's concept and energy the put the Allmans on the map; Dickie helped continue their popularity with solid songs and playing.
I don't think I've ever heard Betts play middle position. It's always rhythm position. And I agree, Dickey was a much more melodic player and musician than Duane was, but Duane was a sultry, stinging player. I think "Get Back" is one of his most quintessential encapsulations of his style.
Great video which I found this day after Dickey died. The Brothers music has brought untold joy to my life! I went to over a 100 concerts put on by various members of the band. Just incredible emotion! Rest in eternity Dickey Betts!
By the way, your playing at the end of the video was amazing! Loved it.
Thank you so much! RIP Dickey. Jamming in the sky with (almost) all the "brothers".
Few players can move me, really only a handful. I’ve seen Dickey and the ABB live more times than I care to count, and each time I’ve seen them, Dickey took me places not many players can. After Dickey was let go, I saw him at a show at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park NJ. After the show, he was signing autographs at his bus, so I grabbed a Strat I had in my car and took it over to him. When I met him he signed the Strat, I then thanked him for all the beautiful music he gave us, he was sitting on the steps of the bus at that time, when I thanked him, he stood up and gave me a hug and thanked me for being at the show. Dickey has a reputation of being a curmudgeon at times, I found him to be most gracious.
Nice job with the video Mark, you nailed Dickey’s sound! Btw, everyone talks about Duane’s work on the Fillmore album, Dickey was on fire when that was recorded, “You Don’t Love Me” is a prime example of some of the finest guitar work recorded live ever. Thanks for this Mark!
PS: did you have a chance to check out Alvin Lee’s outro solo on Bluest Blues, I’m wondering what your take is.
Wow, what an amazing comment!! Such a great story to tell of the man. I've heard Andy Aledort tell some funny, but also touching "Dickie stories" too. I think it shows that reputations, even if earned, are not always real. Letting people know we care, and of course the act of caring itself, is such an important part of being human. I think you rose to that occasion my friend and Dickie saw it.
BTW, totally agree with you on "You Don't Love Me". Duane is my all-time favorite, but Dickie is *WAY* up there too. Both at once is just mindblowingly good. Add the rest of the band with Gregg's penchant for writing wistful songs that still drive and you've got something that only came along once.
Thanks for the kind words about my sound as well. I'm only imitating the master here. So to any extent that I sound good it's due to Dickie doing it in the first place!
Yes, I listened to Bluest Blues! Loved it. Much more to my taste than "I'm Going Home" actually. Alvin's singing is good in it too, as is the slide solo. That solo at the end is great how it builds and builds. Thanks for turning me on to it!!
@@MarkZabel you’re very welcome Sir! Bluest is more to my taste also. Harrison’s slide solo is very tasty, not over done and fits the song perfectly. Again Mark, thanks for this channel, I thoroughly enjoy it!
@@edge1289 The work Dickie did with Warren Hanes in the late 80's to me was the apex of dual, complementary lead work by 2 master's that I've ever heard, live or otherwise.
I can tell you what I think about the "outro", on the "Bluest Blues" Alvin Lee is and was super underrated. His guitar playing the tone was special he was a little weak on vocals, maybe it was ego, but on the strings he was at the top of the game. I love his sound as a kid I grew up on Alvin Lee, ha... I'm still a kid, but I play guitar, dad told me Alvin Lee inspired him to learn guitar, and yep dad has inspired me to play guitar.
@@bigjohnson7415 agreed, as I said above, I’ve seen them more times than I care to count. Have you seen any of the shows with Jackie Pearson? Awesome player!
May God bless Dickey's soul. Great vid! Cheers!
Thank you kindly
First time I ever heard the Allmans was "Ramblin Man" on the AM radio when I was a kid in the 70's. I thought those sweet solos of Dickie's were the best guitar I'd ever heard. They are still in my top 10
Yeah, the only real hit they ever had and with good reason! Dickie's song, Dickie's play. Great stuff!
Lots don't know. The first short solo is played by Les Dudek. Album credits. He was one of the guys who stood in for Duane after his passing.
@@MarkZabel Don't forget he won a grammy for his composition of the song Jessica in 1995, 30 years after he composed it!
YES! Thank you for showcasing Dickey!! His blues, bluegrass and Western swing styles are amazing! Not to mention his singing and songwriting. Saw the ABB in the 90’s a couple of times. Greggs voice was blown out one night so It turned into the Dickey Betts show! So amazing and an unforgettable night!
Wow, that's a great story! Love Dickey's playing and writing.
You knocked that out of the park my friend. You got Dickey down pat.
Thanks!!
It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing and Betts has it in spades. Mix that with Duane's Coricidin craziness and it's lightening in a bottle. ( unintentional bad pun)
I just found your site today and I like the subject & simple breakdowns so I subbed.
Thanks for taking the time to do this.
Thanks for watching and for the sub.
Duane said, "Watch out for Dickie Betts!" He's not just smooth - he's full of fire, too! Listen to his sensational lead break on "Trouble No More" from the "Live At the Fillmore East" album.
Mark, you really nailed his style perfectly. I was a big fan of the Allman Brothers Band and I always preferred Dickie’s “countrified” style more than Duane’s bluesy style. It was his songs which attracted me to the band. Thanks for the lesson Mark.
Thanks so much Frank!
Absolutely! I would go so far as to say that Blue Sky may be the most beautiful song ever written! When I first heard that song I couldn’t get enough and although I don’t play it 50 times in a row anymore I will still play it twice!
Nice. Les Dudek did the Ramblin Man solo on the recording.
Thanks!
One of my all time favorite albums is “Highway Call “ that dobro sound takes me back to a better time every time that I hear it to this day
I can only guess that my computer got sick of listening to me stumbling over these lines. I never said a word, but here you are #1 on my feed, answering all of those scale and harmony questions that have been keeping me, and my wife, up at night. SUBSCRIBED!!!!
Ha ha! That's great. It's not me, I swear!!
Great video. Wicked solo 🎸
Thanks!
I'm a saxophone player but I love the guitar. I've learned other instruments but the guitar is my nemesis. I can't play it to save my life. Maybe chords, but lead lines are not happening. Out of frustration I began to play saxophone along the records of the solos I love. This song translates so well and it also helped improve my breathing for playing. Just brilliant.
I read the liner notes to my CD of Miles Davis's "Kind of Blue", and a large part of the writing was about Duane Allman! Obviously it was to a later version of the Miles Davis classic record, but I was surprised at the references to Duane.
Nice job on the solo. Dickie Betts sound can be recognized after just a couple notes. I love his style .
Thanks Jay!
I drove from Dallas, TX to the 1971 Atlanta Rock Festival, mainly to see ABB.
Well done Mark
A great presentation!
Unfortunately Dickie doesnt get enough recognition for his wonderful melodies.
To me he was the ultimate player in the Allmans
l too fell in love with the iconic album Brothers and Sisters particularly Jessica and Ramblin man.A great example of Southern country rock.
Thanks so much Gavin! The ABB during their peak years produced some of the best music there is. Both Dickie and Duane had a major part in that!
Wow that was some of the best four and half minutes I have ever had. eye opening. Thanks.
Thanks so much John! Glad you found it helpful!
Pittsburgh , Pa . October 15 , 1971 , Syria Mosque . The Allman Brothers Band . What a monumental nite .
Great short but distinct capsule into this oft somewhat under rated fantastic musician and guitarist, M.Z.! Like you........I really came into Allmanland with the 'Brothers & Sisters' album (I believe it is Butch Truck's son on the cover as I recall) and was hooked by Dickie's style! I believe every serious soloing guitarist owes it to themselves to study Bett's unique style if for no other reason than this is proof that we shouldn't just copy other's styles but make our own. You've certainly given a great introduction into doing just that here!! Jim C.
Yes, at first I didn't quite grasp that the guy on Jessica wasn't Duane, because I really didn't know the timeline and the motorcycle crash and stuff. (I was 5 when that happened and my parents were not into rock, so I had no idea.) I think a friend corrected me later on that. And *that's* when I heard Filmore East.
Duane on "Stormy Monday" still blows me away, but Dickie's play throughout is amazing too. All the early ABB albums still hold up very well IMHO. Some of the best stuff out there.
Great
With you, Mark. Dickey had to raise the bar when Duane passed and I believe made a commitment to take the band to great heights. Gregg signed up and really was a great partner, and together they were able to complete their mission together with Duane smiling over them. Eat a Peach put the icing on the cake for both of them.
Thanks Michael. Very well put.
@@MarkZabel like you, he is my favorite of them all. I love swing, country and Django.....in that order. Dickey is so tuned into swing that he got in my blood early. I'm a Jersey musician with swing/southern roots due to my love of this guy. One of a kind and the biggest influence on me in my musical journey.
@@michaelantoniotti2738 Fantastic!
Totally agree that's Betts had a great/unique sound. Thanks for the video! Always wanted to learn his style.
Glad you enjoyed it brother!
Dickey was unique among the blues rock guitarists of this era, I saw him several times with ABB and solo, always great live, it
Bro amazing once again! The first video I ever watched you on was your incredible lesson on the Knack solo for My Sharona. I immediately had to click on,and subscribe. Just watching the
expression’s on you’re face and seeing the joy in you’re eyes as you teach us these jaw dropping solo’s and licks! I can’t personally thank you enough! Another favorite was your solo on Love Gun. Thank you for your awesome teaching style! Always a huge fan Christian.
This was very nice! Thank you for paying respect to Dickie.
Thanks!
Dickie was The Allman Brothers. The Toler brothers were awesome too.
Dickie gave them their iconic sound and melodic signature
I used to see them at a local club in Jacksonville FL in 1969 before they were known outside of the S.E. and it was obvious that they were a very special group of musicians. 😊
You nailed this. I tripped over this / stumbled upon it a few decades ago long before I even knew what notes I was playing. It just felt natural and it flowed. Thanks for showing the flexibility of his style. His free spirit shines thru his picking.
Rock on!
I hope someone knows this and can answer my question. About 50 years ago I was present for a Johnny Russell concert. He brought a guitar picker with him he called the "wild man." He introduced him by name and I think it was Dickey Betts. He had a string bender mounted on the strings above the nut. A rod ran down the neck of the guitar parallel to the big E string. He used his thumb to push the rod and he got some wild sounds from his guitar. He was a show all to himself with that guitar. I have searched YT but I haven't found anything. Any body ever seen or heard of this guitar man? Thanks.
You're so good at that. I've been playing a bit since I was 13, and im pushing 70 now. Life gets in the way, but you have a knack for lighthearted instruction. It's something I've always aspired to, and, arthritis notwithstanding, I'm going to try this. Even if I don't get it completely down right away, I know I have learned more than I have so far. Really late to the party, but thanks
Wow, thanks! I appreciate it. Whatever you do, have fun with it!
Hey Mark,
I realize this tasty nugget of Dickey Betts solo ideas is over two years old but I just wanted to tell you I appreciate it. I've been working on a bunch of Allman Brothers classics so this obviously popped up in my feeds thanks to you :)
Thanks Tommy!
Hey Mark! I’ve watched a bunch of your videos, and they’re ALL great, but for me, this one is your best!!! I am going to really study what you showed. Dickie Betts: KILLER guitarist!
Thanks a bunch Brent! Glad you enjoyed this one!
Mark. As usual, another really insightful and useful vid. So glad I came across your channel. Cheers from Canada.
Awesome, thank you!
Great video!
Thank you !
You really described Dickeys style!
Thanks!
THAT, was a good analysis! I always just figured it was pentatonic; opened my eyes s bit. Farther on Up the Road... 🤘
Cool! Glad you found it insightful!
Nice 👍 lesson! I’ve always enjoyed Dickey’s playing, as well.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
Love Dickeys melodic solos
Me too!!
great work thank you - Love the Allmans
Glad you enjoyed it
Like you, Brothers and Sisters was the Allman's album that really resonated with me. It was the upbeat groove of Jessica that won me over my first year out of high school. I was stationed in South Korea so it always reminds me of those days and the good times we had.
"Jessica" has remained a favorite of mine as well. Great memories!
Another superb lesson demonstrated well.
Many thanks!
Dickie is the shit. He can also play slide well. People forget that.
Yes. His slide is different from Duane though as is to be expected.
Thank you, my friend, for this epiphany!
My pleasure! So glad it was helpful to you!
Hey Mark. I know this is blasphemy but I've always thought Dickie had more creative lines. Frankie Lombardi played drums in one of my old cover bands in CT. Frankie was Dickie's guitar tech with the Allman Bros and played drums for the Dickie Betts Band. Great drummer and humble guy. He told us some crazy stories about Dickie and the Bros. One being that when Dickie was finally fired from the ABB the news came via fax. Anyway, great job as always on the video. -Mark
Hey Man!! Great comment, though I don't agree with you if you're talking about Duane in the creativity department. No matter though, as both were the real deal, so it's personal preference - not blasphemy! LOL!
Geez! Getting fired by FAX? That's kind of sh*%%&. I imagine that must have been tough. Makes for a good story though. Thanks for sharing!
I agree with you 8 Minute...nothing against Duane, I just always preferred Dickeys playing overall
I also would agree. Duane might have been more expressive with his slide playing but strictly melody and writing wise Dicky was definitely better. Also those harmonies I can just tell Dicky had a big part in writing both parts. Dicky has a melodic style that sounds like nobody else. One of my favorite Allman Brothers lineups is with Jack Pearson and Dicky Betts. Jack Pearson is another brilliant guitarist that goes under the radar because of the huge amount of talented guitarists who played in the allman brothers over the years.
I hate to tell y'all where you gonna go when you die !!
I don’t that’s at all blasphemous. IMO Dickie Betts was easily as great as Duane. Love them both.
Love the way you broke this down!
Thanks Danny!
Excellent analysis with perfect examples.
Thank you Dave!
"I'm the famous guitar-player; Dickie is the great guitar-player..."
--Dwayne Allman
Do you know, the first 'Ramblin Man' solo (good job btw) was played by Les Dudek. That's when Dickie is heard, "Allll riight(!)"
Thanks Doc!
Dudek was excellent. I have one of his albums. How do you know Les played that first solo? Do you have a reference? Thanks
Saw him about three or four years ago at Funky biscuit in Boca Raton. He was great. I think he still plays there, he is still working.
Dickie Betts one of the most awesome guitarist that ever played
No doubt.
Nicely done, Mark. Very enjoyable. Great playing!
Thanks Mike! Glad you enjoyed it!
Dickie Betts puts a lot of nature references in his songwriting (Let Nature Sing, Bougainvillea, Blue Skies, etc). I like his guitar picking style too, but his songwriting is a breath of fresh air.
Thanks for the video.
My pleasure - great observation about nature themes. Never thought of that.
LOVE YOUR CHANNEL AND YOUR TEACHING . DICKEY BETTS IS ONE OF THE GREATS . AWESOME VIDEO SIR .
Thank you!
Thanks Mark, Dickie is an awesome player. I wonder if you realise just how many people who have helped?
Thanks Ray!! Really appreciate it.
Great video, Mark! I love Dickie Betts. I think he’s a great player to study and learn licks because his melodies add a uniquely major scale, upbeat feel to rock that fit really well alongside the Page, Clapton, Angus rock blues licks that we all absorb naturally over decades of listening. I can’t think of anyone else in rock who plays like him? Maybe Jerry Garcia kind of?
I remember Greg Allman talking about how he and Duane put the Allmans together and Duane said, "we need a lead guitarist", Greg said "what are you?' Duane said, "yeah but this guy is great also". I actually paraphrasing not quoting but you get the point!
Love it!
This is so funny, about a month ago I decided I really should focus some jamming/practicing time to major pentatonic but I'd always catch myself throwing in the 4th.
I've gotten to see them live many times and was backstage a few times but during that period (early 1990s) Dickey was frequently in trouble and he was never around much when I went backstage. I bought a PRS back then after seeing Dickie switch to them from Les Pauls..
Wow, super-cool!
Great lesson! Looking at these comments, I'll never understand why people always have to say "this guitar player is BETTER than that guitar player". Dickie isn't trying to be Duane. Sports are a "competition". Music is not. The beauty of music is that we all approach it in our own way.
Some people can actually enjoy Dickie's playing without "voting" on who is "better". One of the many things that made ABB such a GREAT band is the fact that Duane & Dickie had completely different styles, and that's actually ok.
Thanks Ric! Yeah, I'm not sure, but I think it's a fairly common thing to compare people and ultimately seek to rank somehow. I love both Duane and Dickie and agree that their differences made their sum greater in the ABB music.
I have my tastes and preferences though for sure. Not only here, but in jazz, R&B, classical and so forth. And you know, even in sports it's tough because there exist plenty of different ways of looking at a rank. Was Pele better than Maradona? Mays better than Ruth? Brady better than Montana? Chamberlain better than Jordan? People still debate these things even though there are fairly objective measures to use.
I think it's fun to contrast their styles, but both Dickie and Duane brought unique gifts to the table. Thanks for your comment!
Hello; Good job really. we can feel that you really like Dickie Betts!! Beside your demo shows you as a very nice person. it gives the envy to meet and jam. Cheers from France
Thank you!
I remember hearing an interview with Duane in which he basically said “ Dickie plays a lot of cool stuff that I get credit for“ and that’s true
oh MAN,,,,without FE, Black Sabbath and Mountain Climbing, who know.s Always wanted to play guitar.
Reunion band bit in '05 was great.
Tune on the set was Ramblin' Man, harmony and the LD lead my band mate.
Slayed it.
Now, Jessica shows almost every time i pick up a guitar.
As much as i loved Duane's playing, Dickie was so important.
'Can't Lose What You Never Had" ;)
Love this solo.
After Duane's untimely and sad passing they subbed Chris Haynes and Derek Trucks (nephew of the drummer). You can always tell Derek's licks as he has a signature rake.
Dickey had a bluegrass style, it's how he was raised, his dad being a fiddle player.
Yes, that shuffle is exactly that - a shuffle you'd hear in a fiddle tune. That's my background too.
Awesome Mark!
Glad you enjoyed it
Tab and Backing Track for This Lesson (for Mark Z Members): mark-z-guitar-school.teachable.com/courses/1330554/lectures/37667472
I like the way you explained, and wrote out the major pentatonic"scale, position #2, after showing minor pentatonic. I think you just opened a door for me? So I will subscribe. Thanks, Steve.
That was great,thanks
Sure thing. Thanks for watching!
WOW, I'm hooked!
Awesome! Glad you liked it.
Great video Mark. Thx
Glad you enjoyed it
Both musicians unique & remarkable player's, huge part of Southern Rock sound, style & pure essence. Great lesson 👍 & livestream today Mark ( I wish that guy who popped in last sec who said he couldn't play as well as us would have said something sooner, I'm lucky to punch this song out using scales😅 Thanks again Mark! That was alot of fun. 🖤 Kris IL 🦋
Thanks Kris! I missed that guy at the end I guess.
Great playin Mark.
Thanks!
did not know about hexatonic but fun, I can see it being named how it was. So just add the fourth to the major penta scale.
Another note: raising 3rd to fourth makes it a C maj penta and kind of has that effect on the G chord, sounding very ramblin manish.
Had another idea making a pentatonic thats exotic harmonic minor is just a raised 5th so just raising the 5th is a bit interesting.
You’ve got the style bang on 👍🏴🇬🇧
Thanks!
Great video.
Thanks!
Awesome lesson for everyone
Thanks!
I have been in search of this kind of break down, I too have loved Dicky Betts style and sometimes while playing along with the song find the groove, Blue Sky is the song that got me the most, that I have worked the hardest on to get Dicky playinh style. The intro and lead while they were in Germany I believe to be one of the best leads ever played, like his prime. There is another guy who played with them when for a short time can't remember his name, he is a jazz guy wore a French burea hat and coveralls. He played a strat, dqmb wish I could remember, he actually pushed Dicky on stage to pull out his best, Dicky stated the guy was a better quitarest, but I believe he challenged Dicky to new heights within his style, to me yes the guy was great but he was a jazz player, that new how to lead that style over lay, he would do Duane's part, Dicky had been Duanes partner together created the essence of the entire sound as a team that is the sound of the Allman. Brothers Band, like Warren Hains learned all the Duane leads, took time but was actually truly in the original spirit and sound of the original sound, the jazz guy was a great alteration similar in spirit but Warren was on the money as he improved had the groove to my ear at least.
Thanks for your comment! Lots to unpack there. Glad you enjoyed this video.
That was Jack Pearson, a great guitar player.
Excellent info dude, thanks!
If you haven't heard it yet, the Live At Winterland version of this song was on the super deluxe edition of Brothers and Sisters, and in my opinion has the best live southern rock solos ever taped. I love Duane going off on Blue Sky live as much as the next person, but you could feel the mourning Dickey had (In my opinion) in his bones from losing his friend and bandmate just two years prior.
Thanks! Yeah, Dickey is just amazing. Love Duane equally, but for different reasons.
An episode of " the mod squad" only years later did I know who was playing. Ramblin' man
Awesome
Thanks!
outstanding. as always.
And I too am a huge fan of Dickie Betts sound. He was a co-author in defining modern southern rock. Actually can hear the connection back to guys like Joe Maphis. Real country!
Thanks! Joe Maphis - there's a name I don't hear often. Even modern shredders could learn a thing or two from him!
I just realized something about Betts, thanks to your breaking it out;
You once said that a good lead needs elements of composition, and one good technique was the sax-breath time limit. But Betts broke that rule, in spades! But it didn't sound like a broken rule, not all.
But you played the lead as if the doubling back was.... taking that next breath. A breath taken while the swimming is still going on.
Nailed it. Again. Thanks 🤙🤙
You bet! Thanks for watching!
that was beautiful
Thanks!
Awesome lesson for everyone, have a great day
Thanks!
I honestly think of Duane and Dickey as equals. Duane was amazing and gets the press but Betts had a style that was unique. Love them both!
I think that's right. Love them both!
Dwayne was an excellent slide man,,,,can't take that from him,,,Now Dickey,,,could play a solo for days and never bore you ! Lol ! What a pair of Aces !!! 😂✌️✝️💕🎸🎶💕🎶💕🎶💕
This is exactly what I've been looking for. Is there something similar for JJ Cale? I could be wrong but Cale also seems to be using a unique scale.
Thanks. I don't know about anything out there like this for JJ Cale.
MARK ZABEL, can you make another video showing more dickie bett HABITS he does using the major pentatonic scale, mixolydian scale, hexatonic scale?
Sounds good!
Crazy because I was introduced to the Allman Brothers through Guitar Hero.
Anyway it happens is good.
great stuff, thanks!
Glad you liked it!
Quick question, I see this as a G Phrygian fingering at 1:15 instead of Mixo. Can you tell me if I am seeing this wrong please. Great lesson!
Thank you !!! 😊
You're welcome. Thanks for watching!
Do you have any stuff for Toy Caldwell of the Marshal Tucker Band? He an Dickey were the best!
I did a few Marshall Tucker things on my live streams. Instantly de-monetized, so I avoid doing it. Sorry.
nicely done
Thank you! Cheers!
Once I noticed the reflection on the pickup covers, I couldn't look away. 1. Please sweat on those a little so I can take in the video properly and 2. What do you use to clean those things? Seriously, either that's a brand new guitar or you're Mr. Clean. If you could share your cleaning tricks AND the hexotonic scale, that'd be great. :D
LOL
@@MarkZabel I think this is a sponsorship opportunity for you. If there's a commercial product you use to clean those pickups, I'd buy it. ;D
Also: I've watched a few of your videos at this point. Good stuff.
Nice!
Thanks!
Dickey Betts is probably my favourite guitar player. Good as Duane was, I still prefer Dickey.
Duane is probably my all-time favorite, but nothing to complain about with Dickie. Nothing at all. Dickie was more linear and probably a better technical player. Both had that drive in their play that makes The Allman Brothers music stand out. It's all good!
@@MarkZabel Absolutely right. It's a bit pointless getting into arguments about who was best. Every player who was in the Allmans stood out as being fantastic in their own right and it really just comes down to personal preference rather than who was better. I'm also very fond of Jack Pearson, not least because of his laid back and humble demeanour. Monster player too.
Great stuff as always.Like you, I first got into the Allman Bros after hearing Brothers and Sisters.Whereas I appreciate Duane's ability I always preferred Dicke's l playing.Living in England there was not much chance to see the Brothers but I did get to see them in 1973 with Dickey on guitar and again in 1990 with Dickey and Warren.I believe the quote from Duane goes something like this,
"There are two guitar players in the band.I am the famous one and Dickey is the good one!"
@@calumm8639 I was at a show during the Brothers annual March run at the Beacon Theatre in NYC. I’m guessing it was around 98 or 99 after Warren and Allen left to do Govt Mule full time. I was a bit bummed that Warren was gone and had no idea who Jackie Pearson was. As the show progressed, it wasn’t hard to tell what an awesome player Jack is, during the second set the band pulled out Call it Stormy Monday, one of my favorites. Jack took the first solo and blew the roof completely off the Beacon that night, I’ve been a fan ever since! I wish he’d do some shows up here in the north east.
Have u counted the # of different guitar traks (not counting bass) ? I'm thinking 7 maybe 8 . The real # could be different . Those guys will always b #1 to me .