This is the end of an era. Gregg Allman, at the age of 69, has passed away, reports Billboard. Only a few months after founding member and drummer Butch Trucks passed away, Gregg Allman has joined the great gig in the sky – alongside Butch, brother Duane Allman, and Berry Oakley.

The Allman Brothers Band singer/songwriter/organist has been sick for quite some time, canceling tours for the last year or so while trying hard to recover his health and return to the road. The Midnight Rider loved nothing more than performing his life’s work, as he continued touring with the Gregg Allman Band even after the disbandment of the Allman Brothers Band in October of 2014.

While the history of the Allman Brothers is quite tragic, it is what shaped American music today. Songs like “Melissa,” “Whipping Post,” “Midnight Rider,” and so on, are the rare breed of musical compositions that will last forever.

Legend doesn’t even begin to describe Gregg Allman. His marks the definitive moment that the Allman Brothers Band is no longer.

This hurts. Rest In Peace, Greggory.

Here is the official statement from Gregg’s website:

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Gregg Allman, a founding member of The Allman Brothers Band, passed away peacefully at his home in Savannah, Georgia.

Gregg struggled with many health issues over the past several years. 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.

Gregg’s long time manager and close friend, Michael Lehman said, “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. His love for his family and bandmates was passionate as was the love he had for his extraordinary fans. Gregg was an incredible partner and an even better friend. We will all miss him.”

Gregg is survived by his wife, Shannon Allman, his children, Devon, Elijah Blue, Delilah Island Kurtom and Layla Brooklyn Allman; 3 grandchildren, his niece, Galadrielle Allman, lifelong friend Chank Middleton, and a large extended family. The family will release a statement soon, but for now ask for privacy during this very difficult time.

The family suggests that tributes to Gregg can be made to the Gregg Allman Scholarship Fund at The University of Georgia or the Allman/Lehman Endowed Scholarship at Syracuse University.

[cover photo by Phierce Photo]