Bobby Hicks, the Grammy Award-winning bluegrass fiddler and revered musician, has died at the age of 91. Known for his unmatched skill and contributions to the bluegrass genre, Hicks’ passing was announced through a heartfelt social media post that reflected the deep admiration and respect he garnered throughout his illustrious career. The post read: “One of my bluegrass fiddling heroes Bobby Hicks passed away this morning. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to his work and his fiddling with the great Bluegrass Album. Rest in peace Bobby, you’ll be missed greatly!” His legacy in the world of bluegrass music, enriched by over fifty years of dedication and artistry, leaves an indelible mark on the genre and its enthusiasts.
Born on July 21, 1933, in Newton, North Carolina, Bobby Hicks exhibited a natural talent for music from a young age. By the time he was nine years old, he had already begun learning to play the fiddle. His early exposure to music and participation in various fiddlers’ conventions set the stage for what would become a legendary career. At just eleven years old, Hicks won the “North Carolina State Championship” for his rendition of the tune “Black Mountain Rag,” an achievement that underscored his prodigious talent and signaled the start of a remarkable journey in music.
In the early 1950s, Hicks became a member of Jim Eanes’ band, a pivotal move that would introduce him to the larger bluegrass community. His talent quickly caught the attention of Carlton Haney, a prominent bluegrass festival planner, who facilitated Hicks’ engagement with Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys in 1953. Initially brought on to play bass, Hicks soon transitioned to the fiddle, an instrument with which he would become synonymous.
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It was during his time with the Bluegrass Boys that Hicks honed his unique style, influenced heavily by session fiddler Dale Potter. Potter introduced Hicks to the “Nashville swing” style, which Hicks seamlessly integrated into his performances. This distinctive blend of traditional bluegrass with a swing influence became a hallmark of Hicks’ playing, earning him accolades and respect from peers and audiences alike. Bill Monroe, a legendary figure in bluegrass, once referred to Hicks as “the truest fiddler he had ever heard,” a testament to Hicks’ unparalleled skill.
In 1956, Hicks temporarily left the Bluegrass Boys to enlist in the army, after recording seven songs with Monroe. His time in the military, however, did not diminish his passion for music. Upon his release in 1958, Hicks rejoined the Bluegrass Boys, recording eleven more songs before leaving in 1959 to work with another country music legend, Porter Wagoner.
Hicks’ career took another turn in 1963 when he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. There, he became a regular performer on the Judy Lynn Show, a position he held for seven years. This period of his career was marked by versatility and adaptability, as Hicks showcased his fiddle-playing skills in a variety of musical settings.
In 1981, Hicks joined Ricky Skaggs’ band, a collaboration that would last for over two decades. During his time with Skaggs, Hicks not only contributed to the band’s success but also continued to refine and perfect his craft. The mid-to-late 1980s saw Hicks frequently collaborating with Bill Monroe, both on stage and in the recording studio, further cementing his status as a bluegrass icon.
Hicks’ contributions to music were widely recognized. In 2002, he was inducted into the “Fiddlers Hall of Fame,” an honor that celebrated his exceptional talent and influence. The following year, he performed with Jesse McReynolds and the Virginia Boys, and in 2004, he marked his 50th anniversary at the Grand Ole Opry, a milestone that highlighted his enduring presence in the world of country and bluegrass music.
Bobby Hicks’ career was not only long but also prolific. He won ten Grammy Awards, a rare achievement for any musician, and released over ten albums, each contributing to the rich tapestry of bluegrass music. His work has influenced countless musicians and will continue to inspire future generations of fiddlers.
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Hicks’ death marks the end of an era in bluegrass music, but his legacy will live on through his recordings, his influence on the genre, and the many musicians he inspired throughout his life. Bobby Hicks was more than just a musician; he was a legend whose contributions to bluegrass will never be forgotten.