Musical legend Gregg Allman passes away at 69

Gregg Allman, the founding member of the Allman Brothers Band who overcame family tragedy, drug addiction and health problems to become a grizzled elder statesman for the blues music he loved passed away at 69.

Allman died at his home in Savannah, Georgia, according to a statement posted to his official website.

The statement says Allman had struggled with many health issues over the past several years.

"I have lost a dear friend and the world has lost a brilliant pioneer in music," CNN quoted Allman's longtime manager and close friend as saying.