Bluegrass and country music legend Ricky Skaggs is set to return to Hampton Roads for his annual holiday tour with the Kentucky Thunder Christmas band. The show will take place at Christopher Newport University’s Ferguson Center for the Arts this December.
Skaggs’ musical journey began at the age of six when he first performed on stage with bluegrass icon Bill Monroe. By his teenage years, Skaggs had already left high school to tour as the opening act for country star Keith Whitley, eventually becoming part of Ralph Stanley’s band, the Clinch Mountain Boys.
Throughout his illustrious career, Skaggs has collaborated with a who’s who of Americana and country music, including Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, J.D. Crowe, and the Country Gentlemen. His diverse musical repertoire also includes performances with acts like Phish, Bruce Hornsby, and Barry Gibb. Notably, in 1989, Skaggs played a pivotal role in reviving Dolly Parton’s career by producing her album White Limozeen.
Ahead of his performance in Newport News, Skaggs spoke with WHRV’s Folk Music Producer Barry Graham, reflecting on his storied career, the evolving music industry, and his enduring passion for music.
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