TRACE ADKINS, RICKY SKAGGS, STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, THE GATLIN BROTHERS, MARK WILLS, AND MORE ADDED TO RONNIE MILSAP TRIBUTE SHOW

Milsap's Final Nashville Concert to Boast More Than 30 Artists

Star-Studded Event Set for October 3, 2023 at Bridgestone Arena

Tickets On-Sale Now Via Ticketmaster.com

Earlier this summer, Country Music Hall of Fame member Ronnie Milsap revealed his final Nashville concert, a special tribute event taking place October 3 at Bridgestone Arena. Milsap today announced eleven additional artists who will join the lineup to salute the musical icon as he closes this chapter of his legendary career.

Newly-announced guest entertainers are Trace Adkins, Ricky Skaggs, Steven Curtis Chapman, Ray Stevens, Pam Tillis, The Gatlin Brothers, Hunter Hayes, Mark Wills, The McCrary Sisters, The Los Lonely Boys and Elizabeth Cook.

“I’m so excited about my last show in Nashville at Bridgestone Arena and the amazing lineup of artists," says Milsap. "I love Nashville and the amazing career my fans have given me. 'I wouldn't have missed it for the world!' Please join me. It will be a very special night.”

Previously-announced performers include Kelly Clarkson, Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Justin Moore, Scotty McCreery, Tracy Lawrence, Randy Houser, Sara Evans, Lorrie Morgan, Neal McCoy, BRELAND, Phil Vassar, Terri Clark, The Band of Heathens and Charlie McCoy. Sixwire will serve as the house band. The evening will honor Milsap and his 50-plus year career, his celebrated catalog and his lasting influence on country music. Ticket holders can expect several special surprise guest performances.

Tickets are on-sale now via ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted and produced by Outback Presents and Conway Entertainment Group.

#COUNTRYGIVESBACK - RICKY SKAGGS & STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN TO HOST TORNADO RELIEF BENEFIT CONCERT ON FEB. 20 AT HEARTLAND CHURCH IN PADUCAH, KY.

LINEUP ALSO INCLUDES JASON CRABB, LARRY STEWART AND MORE

ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT MAYFIELD, KY. TORNADO VICTIMS VIA SAMARITAN'S PURSE

To purchase tickets, click HERE.

Devastated by the damage from the Dec. 10 tornado in Mayfield, Ky., Ricky Skaggs and Steven Curtis Chapman have organized a benefit concert on Sunday, Feb. 20 at 7:00 p.m. (CT) at Heartland Church in Chapman's hometown of Paducah, Ky. Skaggs and Chapman enlisted friends, Jason Crabb, Larry Stewart and more, for the lineup. All proceeds will benefit victims of the tornado via Samaritan's Purse. 

Blue Wolf Capital Partners, The State Group and the family of companies throughout Kentucky (Rick’s Electric, Beltline Electric, Comstock Electric and Delta Services) are pleased to sponsor the Kentucky tornado relief benefit concert. They are committed to helping this region fully recover from the devastation caused by the storms and their thoughts and prayers go out to all who were affected.

“As a boy who was born and raised in Paducah, Ky. (and spent a lot of my childhood in Mayfield), I have been broken-hearted to see the devastation caused by the tornadoes that swept through my home state back in December. I've been praying for the folks back home and have wanted to find a way to encourage them and show them some love. So I reached out to my 'bluegrass big brother' and fellow Kentuckian, Ricky Skaggs, and said, 'let's go play some music and try to raise some money to love on the people there'…and thankfully he agreed! I’m also very grateful to be joined by two other Kentucky brothers, Jason Crabb and Larry Stewart (also from Paducah) for this one night only Kentucky tornado relief benefit, with proceeds going to Samaritan's Purse to help the work that they're doing there for those who have been most devastated and affected by these tornadoes," shared Chapman.

"I’m really glad to be coming back again to help the people of Mayfield, Ky. I came with Franklin Graham and Samaritan’s Purse on Christmas Eve, but I knew I just had to come back. My heart broke when I saw the devastation. This benefit concert will be a great opportunity for the people of Kentucky and the surrounding states to come and help our neighbors that have lost so much. Bring your friends and help all you can, as they really need us right now,” stated Skaggs.

"I am a Kentucky boy, through and through. The moment I heard about the destruction and loss of life from the tornadoes, I went to help. Thankfully, great friends and organizations like Jentezen Franklin, God’s Pit Crew and Samaritan’s Purse jumped right in. And now, my friends – and fellow Kentucky brothers – Steven Curtis Chapman and Ricky Skaggs are pitching in to help even more people through this benefit concert. I sure hope you’ll come out, open up your hearts and join us to make a difference. It’s going to take all of us to rebuild," added Crabb.

“As Kentucky families continue to recover, we are incredibly grateful for the talent and generosity of Steven Curtis Chapman and Ricky Skaggs,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “The proceeds of this concert will go toward our ongoing efforts to help tornado victims return home while reminding them that God loves them and they are not forgotten.”

Based in Boone, N.C., Samaritan's Purse responds to the physical and spiritual needs of individuals in crisis situations, especially in locations where few others are working. Led by President and CEO Franklin Graham, Samaritan’s Purse works in more than 100 countries to provide aid to victims of war, disease, disaster, poverty, famine and persecution. For more information, visit SamaritansPurse.org.

 

RICKY SKAGGS REVEALS NEW KENTUCKY THUNDER BAND MEMBERS

Editor's Note: Let me preface this by saying "WHOO HOO! YAY MIKE ROGERS!!"

Ricky Skaggs has added new Kentucky Thunder band members to its roster of first-rate musicians with Mike Rogers performing tenor vocals and playing rhythm guitar and Billy Contreras on fiddle. This comes as Paul Brewster retires from the band and Mike Barnett recovers from a brain aneurysm sustained in 2020.

Rogers is a vocalist and a multi-instrumentalist, which includes playing drums, acoustic guitar, banjo, and steel guitar. In the past, he has performed as a band member of multiple country and bluegrass acts, including Kevin Denney, Craig Morgan, and Doyle Lawson. Rogers is also a songwriter and producer, having penned songs for Morgan, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Lonesome River Band and Jimmy Fortune, and producing Fortune’s album, Lessons.

Contreras is a fiddler as well as an educator, session player, arranger, and producer. He studied with Buddy Spicher and Rachel-Barton Pine and has performed or recorded with a host of talent including Lionel Hampton, George Jones, Doc Severinsen, Hank Thompson, Hank Jones, Crystal Gayle, Grady Tate, Charlie Louvin, Al Grey, Ray Price, the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, and the Nashville Symphony, along with teaching at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

As both Rogers and Contreras are welcome additions to Kentucky Thunder, missing from the lineup will be long-time band member Paul Brewster, and for now, Mike Barnett.

Brewster was with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder for 26 years, winning many GRAMMY® and IBMA awards during his tenure with Skaggs and the band.

“As Paul's been with me for more than 25 years, he made a huge impact in the sound and makeup of Kentucky Thunder," says Skaggs. "He's one of the best tenor singers in bluegrass music, a first-class musician and a good friend. Paul is a wonderful Christian brother as well, which has been more important to him than his great singing gift. His presence on stage and off will be missed!”

Fiddle virtuoso Barnett’s career includes a GRAMMY® nomination for his highly acclaimed album Portraits in Fiddles. The gifted band member is working towards recovery from a brain injury which occurred in the summer of 2020.

“Our hearts were heavy upon hearing the news of Mike's brain aneurysm back last summer," explains Skaggs. "He has overcome so much and is working hard towards recovery. We can't wait to see him get back to fiddling, of which he is a master at such a young age. My wife Sharon and I, along with the band and crew, look forward to seeing him perform again soon and all of our prayers are with him at this time for God to heal him completely.”

"We congratulate Paul on his retirement and wish him all the best and our thoughts and prayers are with Mike during this phase of his recovery," adds Skaggs' longtime manager Charlotte Scott.

FOOD NETWORK'S TRISHA'S SOUTHERN KITCHEN TO FEATURE RICKY SKAGGS AND SHARON WHITE ON NOVEMBER 9 AND 12

Sharon White, Ricky Skaggs, Trisha Yearwood

Photo courtesy of Trisha's Southern Kitchen

On this weekend's edition of Trisha's Southern Kitchen (Food Network), show host Trisha Yearwood invites her longtime friends and fellow artists, Ricky Skaggs, and his wife, Sharon White, over for a meal filled with laughter and song.

"Trisha is one of the sweetest people I've ever known," says Skaggs. "Getting to spend the afternoon just kicking back, laughing, and singing with her and my wife Sharon, and oh my goodness, eating her fabulous cooking was one of the best days I can ever remember! It was like going home to see family and as we do in the south, she sent home leftovers!"

During the show they'll cook beloved southern comfort foods and reflect on their shared decades-long careers in country music. The menu includes a spin on the classic PB and J, Cherry and Boiled Peanut Bruschetta. They also make Roasted Sweet Vidalia Pork Loin, Collard Cobbler and a final nod to the south, Mini Georgia Peach Cheesecake, for dessert.

"I had a such a wonderful time doing Trisha's Southern Kitchen," adds White. "Trisha is just the best hostess, and the meal she made for Ricky and me was amazing! Then, to cap it off, we sat on the porch and sang together! The entire afternoon was so much fun!"

Catch Skaggs and White on Food Network this Saturday, November 9 at 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET. The show re-airs Tuesday, November 12 at 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET.

RICKY SKAGGS CELEBRATES 65th BIRTHDAY, 60 YEARS IN MUSIC

Last Thursday, July 18, country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs celebrated his 65th birthday, marking 60 years since he struck his first chords on the mandolin. At a concert stop in Stephenville, Texas, Skaggs' good friend and Texstar Ford Summer Concert Series sponsor Doug Montgomery made sure to host the celebration appropriately by surprising him with a guitar-shaped birthday cake.

Over the course of his six decade career, Skaggs has racked up 12 #1 hit songs, 15 GRAMMY® Awards, 13 IBMA Awards, nine ACM Awards, eight CMA Awards, two Dove Awards, and throngs of additional honors including inductions last year into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and the National Fiddler Hall of Fame.

On 60 years in music, Skaggs reflects:

"Wow, it's hard to believe that 60 years ago my dad put a little mandolin in my bed early one morning after driving all night to get home from a job he was working up in Ohio. Home was where his heart was, the mountains of eastern Kentucky, the love he had for my beautiful mom, our family and his love for playing music. He instilled that same love for family into my heart as well. I've traveled so much in the last 60 years, played lots of places around the world, seen things I never dreamed of, things that I'd only seen in world history books at school. I got to play with so many of my heroes and those that had influenced me as a young boy. But with all of that behind me, I can say nothing, and I mean nothing, means more to me than family. My faith in Jesus Christ, and the love of my family have been the foundation stones I've built my career upon. I wouldn't record a song that I'd be ashamed to sing in front of my mother. Sixty years sounds like a long time, but it's gone by so fast I can hardly believe it. I'm so thankful that I've had good people to work with all along the way. I'm also very thankful to all the fans who bought tickets to come out and see our shows and all the music that you've bought over the years. It's much appreciated. There's more music to come, more towns to play. God bless all of you."

Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder continue to blaze the tour trail, performing nearly 100 live concerts each year. On Thursday, August 1, he'll perform live at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium as part of the Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman concert series. A limited number of tickets remain available for purchase at Ryman.com.

#TUNEIN ALERT - RICKY SKAGGS TO APPEAR LIVE ON THIS WEEKEND'S EDITION OF AMERICA'S NEWS HQ ON THE FOX NEWS CHANNEL

Fifteen-time GRAMMY winner Ricky Skaggs will appear on this weekend's edition of America's News HQ on the Fox News Channel. Skaggs will join the show live in-studio to discuss his storied career in music, including his recent inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and IBMA Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

Catch Skaggs on America's News HQ this Saturday, January 12 at 12:50 PM CT / 1:50 PM ET.

RICKY SKAGGS FORMALLY INDUCTED INTO THE COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME

Photo caption: Ricky Skaggs exclaims over his likeness depicted on his

newly unveiled Country Music Hall of Fame bronze plaque

Photo credit: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall Of Fame

Garth Brooks Inducts Skaggs into Historic Institution at Medallion Ceremony Held at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum in Nashville

Last night in Nashville, Tennessee, music legend Ricky Skaggs officially became one of the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. At the official Medallion Ceremony held in the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum's CMA Theatre, Hall of Fame member Garth Brooks, through tear-filled eyes, formally inducted his musical mentor into the historic institution.

"It's kinda hard to believe that this day has really come," says Skaggs. "To hear someone say, 'The newest member of the Country Music Hall of Fame' are some of the greatest words you could ever hear this side of Heaven! I'm so grateful to be inducted into this revered Hall among these highly honored and most beloved people. It's beyond humbling."

Several took the stage to honor Skaggs following his induction. Brooks with Larry Cordle and Sierra Hull saluted Skaggs with "Highway 40 Blues," Dierks Bentley crooned through "You've Got a Lover" and Chris Stapleton brought his distinct vocals, wailing through "The Darkest Hour is Just Before Dawn."

As part of the Class of 2018, Skaggs was inducted into the "Modern Era Artist" category, along with the late Dottie West in the "Veterans Era Artist" category and the late Johnny Gimble in the "Recording and/or Touring Musician" category.

"Many of the fathers and mothers that are in this Hall literally built country music from the ground up," Skaggs adds. "They were 'Working on a Building,' and they built well. Their incredible talent, hard work, and love for this wonderful music has laid a deep and solid foundation that generations will stand on. I'm so thankful for their tremendous contributions. People like me could have never become a member without their sacrifice. They showed us the way, they made the music, and we followed the sound!"

One of the most moving moments of the night was an unprecedented act. After being presented with his medallion, Skaggs was asked to take off his medallion as not to scratch the instrument he was about to be asked to play. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum then offered Skaggs the honor of playing the instrument of his hero, Bill Monroe. This famed Gibson F-5 mandolin, which rests behind glass in the museum, was played by Skaggs when he was just 6 years old in the presence of Monroe himself. With great care, a visibly moved Skaggs took the instrument from one of the museum's curators and lead the audience in the traditional singing of "Will the Circle Be Unbroken." With help from Brooks and the Medallion All-Star Band, Skaggs gave a rousing, emotional performance to conclude this historic and momentous ceremony.

The CMA (Country Music Association) created the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1961 to recognize noteworthy individuals for their outstanding contributions to the format; country music's highest honor.

Produced by the staff of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the annual Medallion Ceremony honors the inductees by highlighting their life stories, important turning points, and the breakthrough artistic achievements that elevated their careers. The inductees are celebrated with speeches, live musical tributes and original video biographies, created by the museum staff using old and often rare recorded performances, past televised interviews and historic photos culled from materials collected, stored and digitized in the museum’s Frist Library and Archives. The ceremony conveys the unique talents, personalities and backgrounds of each Hall of Fame inductee and highlights why each one deserves this prestigious honor.

For more information, visit rickyskaggs.com.

RICKY SKAGGS SET TO APPEAR ON FOX & FRIENDS, VARNEY & CO., THE BIG INTERVIEW WITH DAN RATHER

Soon-to-be Country Music Hall of Famer Ricky Skaggs is headed to the Big Apple this weekend for national appearances on Fox & Friends (Fox News Channel), Varney & Co. (Fox Business Network), and The Big Interview with Dan Rather (AXS-TV).

Skaggs will visit all three national television shows to discuss his storied career as well as his upcoming induction into one of the greatest institutions in the history of music: the Country Music Hall of Fame. The 15-time GRAMMY® winner will be formally inducted this fall.

Schedule of appearances:

Fox & Friends — Sat. June 30 / 9:50 a.m. ET (interview & performance)
Varney & Co. — Mon. July 2 / 9:00 a.m. ET (interview)
The Big Interview with Dan Rather —  airdate TBA

RICKY SKAGGS SET TO PERFORM AT NISSAN STADIUM DURING 2018 CMA MUSIC FEST

Photo courtesy of Carson Photoworks

 
Fifteen-time GRAMMY® Award-winning music legend Ricky Skaggs is bringing his Country hits front-and-center at the 2018 CMA Music Fest in Nashville. Skaggs and his band, Kentucky Thunder, will appear on the Nightly Concerts at Nissan Stadium stage on Sunday, June 10, where he'll perform many of the hit songs that made him famous.

"When I found out that I'm gonna be performing at CMA Music Fest this year, I was SO happy," notes Skaggs. "I thought, WOW! Getting to play some fiery Bluegrass music in that huge stadium, in front of thousands of young Country music fans, this oughta be killer! But then as I read on I realized the CMA wants me to play my old Country hits from the 80's and 90's with a full Country band with drums, piano, pedal steel guitar, twin fiddles, and my red electric guitar with my amp cranked up! Sounds to me like they want some old school Country music. I'm really excited about that, but surely I can find a way to play some of that fiery Bluegrass too!"

Concertgoers can expect to hear Skaggs tear through many of his chart-topping songs including "Highway 40 Blues," "Honey (Open That Door)," "Heartbroke," "Country Boy," and "Uncle Pen," among others.

REVERB SPOTLIGHTS 15X GRAMMY® WINNER RICKY SKAGGS

Exclusive Interview Features Music Legend Dishing on the Legacy of Bill Monroe

Ricky Skaggs and his 15th GRAMMY®  

Photo credit: Carson Photoworks

During an exclusive interview, Reverb recently caught up with 15X GRAMMY® Award-winning Country and Bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs at his Hendersonville, Tennessee recording studio.

Skaggs sat down with the widely-popular music gear website to discuss the late Bill Monroe's unique performance style and the impact the "Father of Bluegrass" left on the genre, as well as Country music. Watch the full discussion HERE.

Skaggs has been quite the buzz around Nashville as of late. Last May, he was spotlighted during a Special Program at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, highlighting his 50+ years as an entertainer. That same month, he celebrated 35 years as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Later in the fall, he returned to his country roots when he performed all of his classic chart-topping songs before a sold out crowd at the Nashville Palace. The concert marked Skaggs' first full-blown country show in Music City in 20 years.

Following the concert, Rolling Stone Country raved: "The playing, as one would expect, was exceptional, and his mountain tenor sounded just as pure as it did 30 years ago. It was both a joyful stroll down memory lane and a reaffirmation of Skaggs' permanent place in the country and roots pantheon."

The icing on the cake was Skaggs' 15th GRAMMY® win last year when he took home the gold for his producer credit on Hillary Scott & The Scott Family's Contemporary Christian album, Love Remains. 

Below is a full listing of Skaggs' GRAMMY® wins.

2016 Best Contemporary Christian Music Album - Love Remains – Hillary Scott & The Scott Family

         Producer - Ricky Skaggs

2008 Best Bluegrass Album – Honoring the Fathers of Bluegrass

2007 Best Southern, Country, or Bluegrass Gospel Album - Salt of the Earth (with The Whites)

2006 Best Bluegrass Album – Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder Instrumentals

2005 Best Musical Album for Children - Songs From the Neighborhood – The Music of Mister Rogers (Various Artists)

2004 Best Bluegrass Album – Brand New Strings

2003 Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals – “A Simple Life”

2000 Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album – Soldier of the Cross

1999 Best Bluegrass Album – Ancient Tones

1998 Best Country Vocal Collaboration with Vocals – “Same Old Train”

1998 Best Bluegrass Album – Bluegrass Rules!

1991 Best Country Vocal Collaboration – “Restless”

1986 Best Country Instrumental Performance – “Raisin’ the Dickins”

1984 Best Country Instrumental Performance – “Wheel Hoss”

1983 Best Country Instrumental Performance – “Fireball”

RICKY SKAGGS TO SERVE AS SPECIAL GUEST ON 75th SANTA TRAIN

Country and Bluegrass Legend Brings Holiday Cheer to Appalachia for 

75th Year of CSX's Holiday Event

Country and bluegrass music legend Ricky Skaggs will be the special guest on the 75th running of the CSX Santa Train on Saturday, November 18.

Skaggs was raised in Cordell, Kentucky, making the cause of helping the people of Appalachia something very near and dear to his heart.

"So excited to get to do the Santa Train this year... it's a beautiful thing," says Skaggs. "I love the children of Appalachia and I love Christmas, so it's gonna be a great thing for my heart. Can't wait!"

Skaggs, whose impressive resume includes 15 GRAMMY® Awards, 12 #1 hits and eight CMA awards, has been performing bluegrass music for much of his life. He's been especially busy lately as he continues to tour the country playing music that is both fed by the soul and felt by the heart.

"We are so excited to have an icon like Ricky Skaggs join us on this year's Santa Train," said Tori Kaplan, Vice President of Communications and Field Support for CSX. "This year's train marks 75 years of giving back to the families of Appalachia, and we couldn't have picked a better partner and representative of Appalachia than Ricky."

Each year since 1942, CSX's Santa Train embarks on a journey from Shelby, Ky., to Kingsport, Tenn., to spread holiday cheer, passing out gifts to families in cities along the rail line. The Santa Train makes 14 stops in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, delivering toys, food and winter clothing to hundreds of residents along the way. Skaggs will accompany Santa Claus and event sponsors CSX, Food City, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Appalachian Power and Soles 4 Souls on the 110-mile trek. He will perform live at the train's final stop in Kingsport.

Fans can use the hashtag #santatrainis75 to follow the train online and engage in the Santa Train conversation on social media.

For more information on Ricky Skaggs, visit rickyskaggs.com.

RICKY SKAGGS FEATURED ON NPR'S ON POINT WITH TOM ASHBROOK

On yesterday's edition of NPR's On Point With Tom Ashbrook, country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs joined the show's national radio airwaves where he performed live and discussed his 50+ years in the music business.

Listen to the full segment HERE.

Hosted by award-winning journalist Tom Ashbrook, On Point's lively conversation covers everything from breaking news to ancient poetry, and features writers, politicians, journalists, artists, scientists and ordinary citizens from around the world.  The show is syndicated to 363 stations across the country.

For more information on Ricky Skaggs, visit rickyskaggs.com

RICKY SKAGGS TO PERFORM AT 50TH ANNUAL CMA AWARDS AIRING WEDNESDAY, NOV. 2 ON ABC

Fourteen-time GRAMMY® Award-winning music legend Ricky Skaggs will perform on "Country Music's Biggest Night."  Skaggs, a former CMA Entertainer of the Year, will be part of a star-studded lineup next week at "The 50th Annual CMA Awards."

"What a joy it is to be back at the CMA Awards," says Skaggs.  "And to be included with so many of my heroes is very humbling."

Additional legendary performers include Alabama, Roy Clark, Charley Pride, Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Brooks & Dunn, Vince Gill, George Strait, Charlie Daniels, Randy Travis, Garth Brooks and more.

"The 50th Annual CMA Awards" will be hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood and broadcast live from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 2 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.

It’s been a busy fall for Skaggs.  He will be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame tonight in Nashville and on Monday, October 31, he will be honored by ASCAP when he receives the organization's prestigious Founders Award.

For more information on Ricky Skaggs, visit www.rickyskaggs.com

RY COODER, SHARON WHITE AND RICKY SKAGGS ANNOUNCES SPRING CONCERT DATES FOR 2016 "SONGS FOR THE GOOD PEOPLE" TOUR

Critically-acclaimed Tour Gears Up for Stops in Atlanta, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, Nashville, Canada and More

Last spring when music legends Ry Cooder, Sharon White and Ricky Skaggs came together for their maiden voyage as a touring trio, they weren't sure how it would be received. Now, more than 30 live concerts later, and with critics raving coast-to-coast, it's apparent that Cooder-White-Skaggs is a touring force to be reckoned with.

The New York Times says Cooder-White-Skaggs is a "Roots-music celebration" that conveys "a sense of rare joyous occasion" while The Oakland Press calls it "a dream collaboration of kindred spirits."

"The seven-piece ensemble delivered almost two hours of classic American roots music sung in glorious harmony, and the performance was at once virtuosic and disarmingly casual," wrote The Times Union newspaper following a performance in Albany, New York.

Following the trio's Berklee show, The Boston Globe reported, "It was a down-home salute to country and bluegrass pioneers whose songs remain an indelible part of the canon, from Hank Williams ('Mansion on the Hill') and Jimmy Martin ('Hold Whatcha Got') to Flatt & Scruggs ('Gone Home') and the Delmore Brothers (an especially stealth 'Pan American Boogie')."

The Philadelphia Inquirer says Cooder-White-Skaggs is "a comfort and joy, focusing on rural, family-harmony-driven, 20th-century classics." The Dallas Morning News raves, "Rarely has passion and performance been so effortlessly entwined in the context of songs written (mostly) before any of the players were even born."

Due to the rising demand for Cooder-White-Skaggs, the trio will keep the train rolling into 2016 with the "Songs For The Good People" tour. Additional live concert dates have been announced in Atlanta, Nashville, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, Canada and more. See below for a complete listing of shows.

Cooder-White-Skaggs brings master multi-instrumentalists Ry Cooder and Ricky Skaggs alive on stage to deliver a revelatory program of blues gospel and bluegrass. They are joined by Sharon White, one of the purest voices in country music, Joachim Cooder on drums and Mark Fain on bass with occasional guest performances by Buck White and Cheryl White of The Whites.

Spring 2016 Cooder-White-Skaggs "Songs For The Good People" Tour Dates:
March 30 - Savannah, GA - Savannah Music Festival

March 31 - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL - Ponte Vedra Concert Hall

April 1 - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - Parker Playhouse

April 2 - Tampa, FL - Straz Center

April 3 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage Atlanta

April 5 - Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium

April 6 & 7 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere

April 9 - Wilmington, DE - The Grand Opera House

April 11 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada - Massey Hall

April 12 - London, Ontario, Canada - Centennial Hall

April 14 - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada - Centrepointe Theatre

April 16 - Ithaca, NY - State Theatre of Ithaca

April 17 - Tarrytown, NY - Tarrytown Music Hall

NBC'S "THE VOICE" FINALE GOES COUNTRY WITH GUESTS RICKY SKAGGS, WYNONNA AND SAM HUNT

NBC's hit vocal competition, "The Voice", wrapped up an amazing ninth season last night with one of the closest races ever for the title. The four final positions, whittled down from thousands of entries, went to #TeamBlake's Barrett Baber and Emily Ann Roberts, #TeamGwen's Jefferey Austin, and #TeamAdam's Jordan Smith.

With America's final votes cast the night before, the finalists returned to the stage with former contestants and to sing duets with their "dream duet partners" as well as duets with their team coaches. What a night for some amazing music!

The night kicked off with an all inclusive contestant rendition of "Lean on Me". Following the performance, each finalist brought back a previous contestant of their choice for a duet. Barrrett Baber chose country favorite Zach Seabaugh for a rousing rendition of the Randy Travis classic, "Forever and Ever, Amen", bringing the crowd to their feet and having millions at home singing along.

Up next was Jeffery Austin with former team member Madi Davis for their collaboration of a song by the late Amy Winehouse, "Tears Dry on Their Own". In true Jordan form, Smith went big and kicked it into full gear by bringing back several contestants to raise the roof with the Journey classic, "Any Way You Want It". Emily Ann Roberts followed Jordan's lead by bringing back a brigade of her own to rock the stage with Rascal Flatts' anthem, "Summer Nights". Following the contestant performances, Coldplay took the stage and performed their song, "Adventure of a Lifetime", followed by another group of former contests who boarded the "Love Train".

Country Dream Duet #1 - Emily Ann Roberts and country bluegrass legend, Ricky Skaggs, did some big time pickin' and it was us that was doing the grinnin' as they brought the crowd to their feet with a rousing, energetic performance of  Skaggs' "Country Boy". What a showing! Bluegrass had a rebirth last night and I'm sure a birth of many new fans.


Following the country collaboration of Roberts and Skaggs, Jeffery Austin connected with his dream partner, Tori Kelly, on her single,“Hollow” and the crowd loved it.


Country Dream Duet #2: Barrett Baber and one of country's biggest voices and most powerful presences, Wynonna, performed her smash hit, "No One Else on Earth" and it was a power vocal on both parts without a doubt.

The evening wrapped up with a duet between Pharrell and hip hop queen Missy Elliott, a performance of "Break Up in a Small Town" by Sam Hunt, a song by The Weeknd, and a finale performance by Justin Beiber. 

And the winner was ... and well deserved ... JORDAN SMITH! Congratulations to all finalists, you were the cream of the crop and we all know that cream always rises to the top!

RICKY SKAGGS TO DUET WITH VOICE CONTESTANT EMILY ANN ON TUESDAY 12/15

Country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs will be featured on NBC's The Voice vocal competition, singing with one of the show's finalists, Emily Ann Roberts.  Skaggs' duet with Roberts will air on Tuesday night, December 15 at 8 pm ET / 7 pm CT.

Roberts, hailing from Knoxville, Tenn., is one of Blake Shelton's two remaining team members and will be breaking out some country hits.  She will be joined by Skaggs to sing his #1 country song, "Country Boy."

The Voice features the strongest vocalists from across the country who are invited to compete in this blockbuster vocal competition show's ninth season. Internationally acclaimed artist Gwen Stefani returns to join megastars Pharrell Williams, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton as celebrity musician coaches, while Carson Daly continues to serve as host.  After many rounds of singing and voting, in the end, one contestant is named The Voice and receives the grand prize of a recording contract.

For more information, check out the story on E! News, HERE.

CRITICS RAVE AS "COODER-WHITE-SKAGGS" TOUR BARRELS ONWARD

 Photo courtesy of Erick Anderson / eafoto

The touring trio of guitar virtuoso Ry Cooder, country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs and country songbird Sharon White has proven to be a hit show as critics around the country continue to rave.  Since kicking off in Salt Lake City last June, the "Cooder-White-Skaggs" tour has awed concertgoers and reviewers alike.

After attending the group’s first concert date, Christie Gehrke of Salt Lake Magazine wrote, "The trio especially hit their sweet spot when harmonizing.  They were backed by an exceptional band, most notably the 84-year-old Buck White—father of Sharon White—on piano.  At some point in nearly every song, Skaggs would exclaim, 'Get it, Buck!' and the octogenarian would riff.  Because this tour is a family affair, it also featured Joachim Cooder on percussion and sister Cheryl White singing back-up."

"The guitar giant's (Cooder) delicate, rootsy riffs swirled with Ricky Skaggs' twangy mandolin and fiddle.  His baritone crooning anchored songbird Sharon White's gospel harmonies.  His back-to-the-beginning plucking elevated the legendary tinkling of Buck White's grand piano," says Jason Blevins of the Denver Post.

Jon M. Gilbertson of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel noted, "Skaggs was predictably fine on fiddle and mandolin, while Cooder added a banjo to a rack of guitars, all played with his characteristically thoughtful, exploratory confidence."

On Buck White's piano playing, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune's Jon Bream raved, "The 84-year-old played the perfect boogie woogie, gospel riffs or honky tonk licks.  He earned probably the loudest cheers of the night when he practically turned into Jerry Lee Lewis during Skaggs' 1981 country hit, 'Don’t Get Above Your Raisin.'  Buck did his daughters (Sharon and Cheryl) and son-in-law (Skaggs) proud."

The "Cooder-White-Skaggs" tour brings master multi-instrumentalists Ry Cooder and Ricky Skaggs alive on stage to deliver a revelatory program of blues, gospel, and bluegrass.  They are joined by Sharon White, one of the purest voices in country music, Joachim Cooder on drums and Mark Fain on bass with occasional guest performances by Buck White and Cheryl White of The Whites.  The tour continues through 2015 with upcoming tour stops in Charlotte, NC, Knoxville, TN, San Francisco, CA, Seattle, WA, Portland, OR, New York, NY and more.

Upcoming "Cooder-White-Skaggs" Tour Dates:

Aug 19 - Charlotte, NC - McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square
Aug 20 - Rocky Mount, VA - Harvester Performance Center
Aug 21 - Charlottesville, VA - The Paramount Theatre
Aug 22 - Knoxville, TN - The Tennessee Theatre
Sept 22 - Austin, TX - Paramount Theater
Sept 24 - New Braunfels, TX - Gruene Hall
Sept 25 - Dallas, TX - Granada Theater
Sept 27 - Phoenix, AZ - Musical Instrument Museum
Sept 29 - Santa Barbara, CA - Granada Theatre
Sept 30 - Saratoga, CA - The Mountain Winery
Oct 2 - San Francisco, CA -  Great American Music Hall
Oct 5 - Arcata, CA - Van Duzer Theatre
Oct 6 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater
Oct 7 - Seattle, WA - The Moore Theatre
Oct 8 - Vancouver, BC, Canada - The Vogue Theatre
Nov 10, 11 - Alexandria, VA - The Birch mere
Nov 12 - Glenside, PA - Keswick Theatre
Nov 14 - New York, NY - Carnegie Hall 
Nov 15 - Albany, NY - The Egg Center for the Performing Arts
Nov 16 - Burlington, VT - Flynn Center for the Performing Arts
Nov 17 - Boston, MA - Berklee Performance Center
Nov 18 - Portland, ME - State Theatre
Nov 20 - Chapel Hill, NC - Memorial Hall, Univ. of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

RY COODER, SHARON WHITE AND RICKY SKAGGS TEAM FOR "COODER-WHITE-SKAGGS" NATIONAL TOUR

Photo Credit: Erick Anderson / eafoto

Nashville, Tenn. (May 5, 2015) - World-renowned guitarist Ry Cooder, country music songbird Sharon White and country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs are combining forces for a national road show.

Today, the three music vets announced the "Cooder-White-Skaggs" tour, their maiden voyage as a musical trio.  The tour kicks off  in Salt Lake City this June and will continue with scheduled performances in Denver, Milwaukee, San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, New York City and more.

"Getting to work with Ry Cooder has been a dream of mine for a long time.  He is a world-class musician," notes Skaggs.  "We met at a GRAMMY Awards show many years ago and thought it would be a blast to do something together sometime, and now we're getting to create new sounds around old music.  But the best part is getting to share the stage every night with my wife and sweetheart Sharon White.  My heart is full!"

In a most exceptional pairing, master multi-instrumentalists Cooder and Skaggs will come together on stage to deliver a revelatory program of blues, gospel, and bluegrass music.  They will be joined by White, one of the purest voices in country music, Joachim Cooder on drums, and Mark Fain on bass with occasional guest performances by Buck White and Cheryl White of The Whites.

"I always love singing and playing music with Ricky...  he's just my favorite in every way!" says White.  "And we are both so excited to be doing shows this year with Ry Cooder.  What an incredible artist!  He is truly a 'one-of-a-kind' musician!  Ricky and I share Ry's love for traditional country, bluegrass, and old-time gospel music.  He is passionate about doing music that is authentic and real.  It's infectious!"

"'Cooder-White-Skaggs' is the legacy express, or I'll eat a bug," quips Cooder.  "You are going to hear four-part singing from the heart, the finest and best instrumental activity in the land, songs you know and love and to top it off, the indomitable Buck White on piano who will turn your money green.  Now who's happy?  That's the way we're gonna stay so knock on wood!"

"Cooder-White-Skaggs" 2015 Tour Schedule:

June 16 - Salt Lake City, UT - Red Butte Garden
June 17 - Aspen, CO - Belly Up Aspen
June 19 - Boulder, CO - Chautauqua Auditorium
June 21 - Telluride, CO - Telluride Bluegrass Festival
June 22 - Denver, CO - Denver Botanic Gardens
July 17 - Milwaukee, WI - The Pabst Theater
Sept 30 - Saratoga, CA - The Mountain Winery
Oct 2 - San Francisco, CA - Great American Music Hall
Oct 3 - San Francisco, CA - Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Fest
Oct 5 - Arcata, CA - Van Duzer Theatre
Oct 6 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater
Oct 7 - Seattle, WA - The Moore Theatre
Nov 10-11 - Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere
Nov 14 - New York City, NY - Carnegie Hall
Nov 17 - Boston, MA - Berklee Performance Center
Nov 18 - Portland, ME - State Theatre

HIGH VALLEY DUET WITH RICKY SKAGGS ON GRAND OLE OPRY

Photo By: Chris Hollo

April 29, 2015 -- Nashville, TN -- High Valley saw another dream come true over the weekend as they had the opportunity to share the stage with their musical hero, Ricky Skaggs, during Saturday’s performance of the Grand Ole Opry. Skaggs joined High Valley in the Opry’s hallowed circle to perform “Make You Mine,” the fastest selling song in the duo’s history.

“Make You Mine,” which appears on High Valley’s recently released album, County Line, features a guest appearance by the bluegrass icon and is available now on iTunes. The video, directed by Roger Pistole (Dierks Bentley, Lee Ann Womack), can be seen HERE. Following their Opry appearance, High Valley presented Skaggs with a #1 plaque commemorating the “Make You Mine” video topping the CMT Canada charts.

High Valley is an unsigned, independent artist in the US. Brothers Brad (lead vocals, acoustic guitar) and Curtis Rempel (harmony vocals, mandolin) make up High Valley. The sibling duo initially found inspiration in the music of country music icons Alabama, Rascal Flatts, Diamond Rio and Shenandoah while growing up listening to their older sisters’ records. After seventeen years of touring and opening for the likes of superstars Shania Twain, Little Big Town and Alan Jackson in their northern homeland, Canadian CMA Awards Interactive Artist of the Year winners High Valley have made their U.S. debut with the release of their full-length album, County Line! Get to know more about High Valley their official website.

 Photo credit: High Valley

17th ANNUAL ICM FAITH, FAMILY & COUNTRY AWARDS TO AIR THIS WEEKEND

Get “Inspired” This Christmas Season: 

This Year’s Show Focuses on Winners…and Survivors

Nashville, Tenn. (December 14, 2011) – The 17th Annual Inspirational Country Music Association’s Faith, Family & Country Awards will begin airing just in time to be “inspired” for the Christmas season. The award show will air this Saturday, December 17 at 4:30 P.M. (CST) on TCT Network and will re-air on Sunday, December 18 at 7:30 P.M. (CST)**. In case you miss it, you can catch it again on Saturday, January 14 at 7:00 P.M. (CST) on the NRB Network. Hosted by Inside Edition’s national correspondent anchorMegan Alexander and GAC’s popular entertainment news anchor, Storme Warren, the annual award show honors and showcases the biggest names and emerging talent among artists who perform Inspirational Country music. A few of this year’s honorees include Ricky Skaggs, Lady Antebellum, Justin Moore, Jeff Bates, The Fox Brothers, Joey + Rory, The Roys and the movie “Soul Surfer.”

Co-hosts Megan Alexander and Storme Warren return for the 17th Annual ICM Awards

This year’s Awards focused not only on the winners of the awards but on survivors, as well. Taped in front of a live studio audience at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center, the evening’s show was tied “with pink ribbon” to the Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition (complete with pink carpet arrivals, a presentation byUltimate World Fight Champion Rich Franklin and a place of honor on stage for the retinue of 136 breast cancer survivors). The show also paid tribute to Ground Zero heroes with performances by Lee Greenwood of “God Bless The USA” and Chuck Day’s self-penned “I’ll Stand Up And Say So.”

  

Ultimate World Fight Champion Rich Franklin with Breast Cancer Survivors

You can find TCT Television Network here:
Direct TV—Channel: 377
Sky Angel Satellite Channel: 133
www.tct.tv

You can find the NRB Network here:
Direct TV—Channel: 378
Sky Angel IPTV Channel: 126
www.nrbnetwork.tv

Check local listings for show times in your area. The broadcast can also be watched in a streaming format online on both networks. 

Ricky Skaggs brings home "Entertainer of the Year” and “Musician of the Year”

at the 2011 ICM Awards

The 2011 Inspirational Country Music Awards continue as the highpoint finale of Inspirational Country Music Week, an annual event presented by the Inspirational Country Music Association. This year’s schedule, which ran October 24-28 in Nashville, was as in past years, a major drawing event across a broad cross section of industry, music fans, broadcast media, and artists in a well-orchestrated showcase of music, conference scheduling and seminar related activities. For more information on the ICM Faith, Family & Country Awards, please visit www.icm-awards.com.