Gregg Allman, founder of the Allman Brothers Band, has died at the age of 69. Allman’s publicist Ken Weinstein states the singer died at his home in Savannah, Georgia earlier today (Sat, May 27th).

“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,” his website states.

“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.”

Allman’s long time manager and close friend, Michael Lehman states, “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 was an incredible partner and an even better friend. We will all miss him.”

Allman is survived by his wife, Shannon, children, Elijah Blue, Delilah Island Kurtom and Layla Brooklyn Allman; three grandchildren, one niece, lifelong friend Chank Middleton, and a large extended family.

Allman’s family will release a statement soon, but are asking for privacy right now during this difficult time.

Fans wanting to dedicate tributes to Allman can through the Gregg Allman Scholarship Fund at The University of Georgia or the Allman/Lehman Endowed Scholarship at Syracuse University.

Allman was born December 8, 1947 in Nashville, Tennessee. He and his brother Duane co-founded the Allman Brothers Band in Macon, GA which shot to fame in the 1970s with their lengthy instrumental dual guitar jams. Some of the group’s biggest hits include “Ramblin’ Man” and “Whippin’ Post.”

Allman is a southern rock pioneer who has won several Grammys and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Georgia Hall of Fame. He’s had a successful solo career as well with hits like “I’m No Angel” and “Midnight Rider.”

Many musicians have shared their thoughts on social media.