My experience

This past weekend I had the honor to attend the “In Memory of Dickey Betts” concert in Macon, and I figured I’d give a few points and observations.

1. This was the most talent I’ve ever seen on stage at once.
2. This concert was only second to the first time I saw the Foo Fighters back in 2015
3. Derek Trucks is the greatest living guitar player right now.
4. Even though the Foo Fighters concert is my number one, the rendition of “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” was probably the greatest thing I’ve ever experienced live. “Jessica” was a close second.
5. Duane Betts not only has the look, but also a lot of his father’s playing ability. I was blown away.
6. Warren Haynes has the nicest guitar tone I think I have heard live.
7. The only “disappointment” was the noticeable lack of Jaimoe, but he’s 80, and apparently didn’t want to travel. He’s 80, I get it, but man I would have loved to see him play with the boys on Liz Reed.
8. Chuck Leavell was on fire. I was really excited to see him live and he fully lived up and exceeded my expectations. His performance on Jessica was absolutely beautiful Give his discography and credits a goog if you’re unfamiliar.
9. What I said for Chuck, the same goes for Oteil. Just incredible and I don’t think I ever saw him lose his smile. He is someone I would love to hang around. Just an all time vibes guy.
10. Derek’s solo from Liz Reed was an all timer. I’d like to use the word historic. I’m adding a link below that you all should be able to view, just make sure you click for sound. You can exit out of the “never miss a post” ad and still watch it.

I really hope they do an official release of the performance. The energy and creativity displayed during the show was outstanding. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to witness it in person. Nugs.net left the livestream video up for the weekend, but it has since been taken down from all platforms. I linked the audio below, so even if the visual aspect is no longer available, y’all can still enjoy the incredible talent and artistry that was showcased.

Derek solo – https://www.instagram.com/oleskycraig/reel/DGrLW1SuudB/

Audio of show – https://archive.org/details/in-memoryof-dickey-betts-2025-02-28.vwmule_202503