The Allman Brothers Band had a career that was marked by success and acclaim. However, it was also outlined by pain, suffering, and crime. Concerning the latter, the biggest tragedies to transpire during the band’s career were when Duane Allman and Berry Oakley passed away in separate motorcycle accidents. Both accidents happened just a year apart.
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Unfortunately, these tragedies did not mark the end of the Allman Brothers Band’s trials and tribulations. Following the death of Allman and Oakley, Gregg Allman made a polarizing decision that would ultimately lead to the band’s temporary disbandment in 1976. Specifically, Gregg Allman testified against the band’s road manager and friend, John “Scooter” Herring, in federal court for drug charges.
Why Gregg Allman Testified Against His Own Drug Dealer
It is common knowledge that in the 1970s, Gregg Allman had an issue with c—ne. Matter of fact, according to the Hollywood Reporter, Allman has reportedly attended rehab a total of 17 times. Regardless, when Allman wanted his fix, he’d often get it from his road manager and friend, John Herring. Consequently, Herring was arrested and taken into federal custody outside of Capricorn Records in Macon, Georgia.
Subsequently, the trial transpired, and that is when Allman testified against Herring and ultimately split up the Allman Brothers. Concerning the decision to testify against Herring, Allman told Rolling Stone, “They kept reminding me, ‘Listen, if you tell any lies, we’re going to get you for perjury and give you three to five years.’” “By this time, I was scared out of my wits. I knew I was going to jail,” added Allman.
It is unclear if Allman’s testimony was the deciding factor in Scooter’s conviction and sentencing. According to Allman, it wasn’t. Nevertheless, that hunch did not mend the damage Allman’s testimony had already done to the band. During the time of the trial, Dickey Betts stated, “There is no way we can work with Gregg Allman again. Ever,” per UCR.
While Allman’s actions were questionable, and Betts’ comment seemingly final, the Allman Brothers Band were able to make amends and reunite years later in 1979. Furthermore, Hearing’s conviction was reversed in 1978, and he was later pardoned by former President and Georgia native Jimmy Carter.
The Allman Brothers Band’s final show transpired at the Beacon Theatre in 2014 and featured founding members, Gregg Allman, Jaimoe, and Butch Trucks. This show marked their official retirement, and luckily, their career ended on a high note.
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
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