Allman Brothers Band

Technically, the Allman Brothers Band hasn't existed since November 1971. But the band forged on less than a month after guitarist Duane Allman's death in October of that year. Thirty years later, this pioneering Southern-rock institution keeps pace with the packs of protégés it has spawned while fostering a loyal fanbase that rivals the legions still celebrating the once-grateful Dead. In recent years, the band has been infused with energy from the prodigious Derek Trucks and guitarist Warren Haynes, both of whom have helped take the band's trademark double-lead sound to new heights. And as long as Gregg Allman is still holding court on the organ, a lifeline to the band's founding spirit will remain. That's the headstrong spirit of Southern rock shining though, a spirit that thrives no matter whose names fall under the Allman Brothers Band on the marquee.