The city of Macon, Georgia was alive all weekend as fans from across the country poured into town for a night that felt like a homecoming for Southern rock royalty. The Atrium Health Amphitheater buzzed with anticipation on Saturday, October 11, as Tedeschi Trucks Band, Gov’t Mule, and Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel took the stage — a powerhouse lineup that paid homage to Macon’s rich musical legacy and the enduring spirit of The Allman Brothers Band.

Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel Open the Night

Kicking things off was Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel, whose set blended classic Southern rock with introspective storytelling. Betts, son of Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts, opened with “Waiting on a Song” and moved through soulful numbers like “Colors Fade” and “Saints to Sinners.” Fans lit up as the band dove into “Shinin’”, a nod to Duane’s earlier work with The Allman Betts Band, before closing with a triumphant rendition of “Jessica”, the instrumental classic written by his father. It was a full-circle moment — the song echoing through the same city where it was born.

Gov’t Mule Keeps the Groove Heavy

Next up, Gov’t Mule stormed the stage with their trademark blend of swampy blues and psychedelic jams. Warren Haynes and his band tore through a 15-song set that showcased their deep catalog and collaborative spirit. Highlights included a searing “Mule,” a funk-infused “Banks of the Deep End,” and the emotional medley “When Doves Cry / Beautifully Broken”, featuring special guest George Porter Jr. of The Meters.

Midway through, Derek Trucks joined for a fiery “Desdemona”, bridging the old Allman Brothers lineage with modern brilliance. Haynes’ guitar work soared on “Rocking Horse” and “Soulshine,” which also featured Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks. The crowd — a mix of longtime fans and new faces — responded with thunderous applause, celebrating not just the music, but the family-like bond shared across these bands.

Tedeschi Trucks Band Close in Spectacular Fashion

Tedeschi Trucks Band capped the night with a sprawling, soulful set that felt both spiritual and celebratory. Opening with “Crazy Cryin’” and “Anyhow,” Derek Trucks’ slide guitar tone filled the amphitheater with emotion. The 12-piece ensemble moved through blues standards like “I Must Have Done Somebody Wrong” (Eddie Kirkland cover) and “I Walk on Guilded Splinters” (Dr. John cover), blending them seamlessly with fan favorites “Until You Remember” and “Made Up Mind.”

As the night deepened, Warren Haynes rejoined for a jaw-dropping “Pasaquan” — complete with a “Little Martha” tease — followed by “Mountain Jam”, a monumental Allman Brothers tribute that brought the crowd to its feet. The finale, a rousing cover of The Beatles’ “With a Little Help From My Friends,” united the stage and audience alike in one joyous, soulful chorus.

Macon’s Musical Heartbeat

For those who made the pilgrimage, this show was more than just a concert — it was a celebration of Macon’s soul. Fans spent the weekend exploring landmarks like The Big House Museum, where the Allman Brothers once lived and rehearsed; Rose Hill Cemetery, the resting place of Duane and Gregg Allman; and Capricorn Sound Studios, where Southern rock’s foundation was laid. The streets, restaurants, and local shops were filled with out-of-towners swapping stories and sharing memories, a testament to how deeply the Allman legacy still resonates here.

By the time the final notes rang out under the Georgia sky, it was clear this wasn’t just another tour stop. It was a spiritual gathering — one that reminded everyone that the soul of Southern rock still beats strongest in Macon.

Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel Setlist: Waiting on a Song • Colors Fade • Shinin’ • Saints to Sinners • Jessica

Gov’t Mule Setlist: Grinning in Your Face • Mule • Banks of the Deep End • Game Face • Thorazine Shuffle • When Doves Cry / Beautifully Broken / When Doves Cry / Beautifully Broken (with George Porter Jr.) • Just Kissed My Baby (with George Porter Jr.) • Time to Confess • Desdemona (with Derek Trucks) • Rocking Horse (with Derek Trucks) • Soulshine (with Susan Tedeschi & Derek Trucks)

Tedeschi Trucks Band Setlist: Crazy Cryin’ • Anyhow • Do I Look Worried • I Must Have Done Somebody Wrong • Who Am I • I Walk on Guilded Splinters • Until You Remember • Keep On Smilin’ • It Ain’t Fair • Devil Be Gone • Angel From Montgomery / Sugaree • Made Up Mind • Pasaquan • Mountain Jam • With a Little Help From My Friends