A life full of music. That’s the story of Ricky Skaggs. A 15-time Grammy Award winner, Skaggs has spent more than six decades making his mark on country and bluegrass music while staying true to his musical roots.
Born in Cordell, Kentucky, Skaggs received his first mandolin at age five and was performing alongside bluegrass legends Bill Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs by age seven. He began his professional music career in 1971 with Ralph Stanley before joining Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band and eventually launching a successful solo career.
Throughout the 1980s, Skaggs became one of country music’s biggest stars, earning 12 No. 1 hits, eight Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1985, and an invitation to join the Grand Ole Opry in 1982. His success helped lead the neo-traditionalist movement, bringing renewed attention to country music’s traditional sound.
In 1997, Skaggs established his own record label, Skaggs Family Records, and continued his dedication to bluegrass music alongside his acclaimed band, Kentucky Thunder. Together, they have released numerous Grammy-nominated and award-winning recordings, earning recognition for their extraordinary musicianship.
In 2018, Skaggs was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and National Fiddler Hall of Fame. He was also awarded the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 2020 for his contributions to American music.
Today, Skaggs continues to share his passion for country, bluegrass, and roots music with audiences around the world, preserving the traditions that shaped his career while exploring new musical possibilities.
Read more on his website: https://rickyskaggs.com/about/.