For many musicians, the breakup of a band that has been not only relevant, but killing it for almost 50 years might signal the end. But for Gregg Allman, the end of the Allman Brothers Band just means he dedicates himself full-time to his 40-year solo career and that the guys on stage with him have different names and faces.
And he doesn’t have to consider their opinions.
“Remember, I’ve had a solo career for well over 40 years now, so it’s not really all that different to me,” he says.
“There’s just no bouncing back and forth from band to band anymore. I am very proud of how the Allman Brothers finished up; we did it on our own terms, and we went out on top,” he continues. “I never wanted us to become a parody of ourselves, and I know my brother [Allman Brothers co-founder Duane] would have approved. It’s over now, and I’m very happy to be focusing on my solo career. I’m having a blast, man.”
Allman will return to the Coke Stage at Riverbend with the Gregg Allman Band tonight. He played the same stage with the Allman Brothers in 2006. A year ago, guitarists Derek Trucks and Warren Haynes, both of whom have said they originally intended their stays with the Allman Brothers to be temporary, surprised some by announcing the 2014-15 tour would be their last with the band. Almost immediately it was announced it would be the end of Allmans.