The complexities of Gregg Allman’s relationship with Cher have been brought to light in a forthcoming documentary, *Gregg Allman: The Music of My Soul*, set for release on June 17. This film offers an intimate look at their tumultuous romance, which unfolded against the backdrop of Allman’s rock star lifestyle in the 1970s.
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The narrative of their initial meeting is relayed through the insights of Taj Middleton, the son of Allman’s long-time friend, Chank Middleton. Taj reveals that despite being a celebrated musician, Allman was remarkably shy and found it challenging to approach women, particularly someone as iconic as Cher. “My dad had to play intermediary to get that going,” Middleton explains in the documentary. He recounts a night out at a Los Angeles club, where Allman, overwhelmed by nerves, enlisted his father’s help to introduce him to Cher.
The couple finally wed in 1975 after Cher discovered she was pregnant with their son, Elijah Blue, who is now 49. Cher reflects on their rushed Vegas wedding in her upcoming memoir, *Cher: The Memoir, Part One*, revealing that although she believed it was the right choice, the ceremony was devoid of romance. Their marriage faced immediate challenges, and Cher filed for divorce just nine days later. However, they reconciled and remained married until 1979.
Chuck Leavell, keyboardist for the Allman Brothers Band, also shares his thoughts about the couple in the documentary. Initially taken aback by Allman’s romance with one of the world’s most famous women, he recalls, “We’re all going, ‘Oh what? Cher? Wow, God that’s weird, isn’t it? But okay.’” Leavell expresses admiration for Cher’s character, describing her as respectful and supportive while on tour with the band. “She wanted to be with Gregg, and the cameras were gonna follow no matter what,” he notes.
In his own memoir, *My Cross to Bear*, published in 2012, Allman reminisces about their first encounter at the Troubadour nightclub, where Cher was attending with music mogul David Geffen. He also reflects on varied experiences they shared, including a disastrous first date marred by substance use and a much more enjoyable second outing filled with dancing.
Despite their shared affection, the intense scrutiny from the media created considerable strain on their relationship. Allman recalls in archival footage that the constant attention left him feeling trapped, unable to enjoy simple private moments. Cher has shared in her writings that Allman’s struggles with addiction adversely impacted their time together. On one occasion, Allman ended things through a note, expressing concern about not wanting to be made a “fool” after Cher resumed working with her ex-husband, Sonny Bono.
Ultimately, while their romantic relationship was fraught with difficulties, Cher and Allman managed to maintain a friendship long after their marriage ended. Cher attended Allman’s funeral in 2017, showcasing the enduring bond between the two.
In a 2015 interview with journalist Dan Rather, Allman spoke candidly about their friendship. “I do not belong in Beverly Hills, and she wasn’t gonna come down south,” he remarked. “Now, Cher and I are friends. We are good friends now.”
*Gregg Allman: The Music of My Soul* promises to deliver a thorough exploration of the legendary musician’s life, especially his relationship with Cher. As the documentary approaches its release, fans of both artists can anticipate a thoughtful and revealing portrayal of a love story that has left an indelible mark on the music world.