Not sure you're looking at these comments from a 4 year old reaction, but.... I really like that you research the artist, the bandmates, and the history for your reactions. It completes the package. Good job Phil.
William Hampton You ain't lying. I saw him live and it was mind blowing. Players with him were as well. I see bluegrass and country picking prowess as I see the same virtuosity of jazz and classical musicians. I have mad respect this. I play sax,. keyboards, drums and flute, but the guitar and strings I can't figure out. It sucks, but that's why I respect those who can play.
Just saw Ricky last night at Ozark Music Festival in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas. He’s still laying it down perfect. Thank you for sharing Wings of Pegasus
Allen Woodall he got on stage with bill Monroe and he got on the stage on flat and Scruggs show when he was 7 Ricky told the story how he got on stage with bill but bill hurried him off pretty quick but flat and Scruggs treated him good the video is called young Ricky Skaggs check it out
Ricky was already a well know local celeb by the time he played with Bill. Lester and Earl actually helped Ricky way more, featuring him on their tv show several times.
I really admire your appreciation and willingness to analyze these country artists. I feel like many fans of rock are quick to dismiss these players on genre alone, and you certainly do an excellent job of pointing out the skill it takes to perform at their level. Very enjoyable, keep up the great work!
wags I thought I only liked rock till my husband took me to see Ricky, one of the best concerts ever, his band was having so much fun we didn’t need to be there, I felt like we were spying on them. Changed my mind & broadened my music taste. I love Fil, his deep love of music is so apparent. I learn a lot, too.
These soy-boy phony baloney wannabes that call themselves country singers -players, couldn't carry Ricky Skaggs guitar case. Ricky is such a great player, and that band - ooooh my, hard to put into words. Great just great !!!
First let me say that I am 67. My Teen-age years were the mid 60's and onward. So, I grew up with some incredible music from the 60's and through the 70's. I'm not gonna even try and start naming even some of the great bands...it would take hrs...LOL..!! My Mother studied piano and voice when she was at a University, and was asked to go audition for the New York Metropolitan Opera as an opera singer. She chose instead to get married and just be a housewife and raise kids. But she taught piano to other children and taught choir a lot too. I was raised listening to many of the great musicals like OKLAHOMA ! and SOUTH PACIFIC and CAROUSEL and I was also in choirs throughout my Elementary and Jr. High years. But, I was also always on the "A" team in football and was a fast runner in track. I think that I had a well rounded background in not only music but in athletics. I will always be very thankful for that. Now my point that I want to make. I enjoy a wide variety of music but I think that one of the purest forms of music is Bluegrass. It can't be faked, it's not auto-tuned or produced by 1 person using a keyboard with sampling . Nope...good Bluegrass takes real musicians playing real instruments and singing with real voices. It can't get any purer and honest than this.
This was extremely fun to watch. Not only the skills and music, but the appreciation for what was going on was written all over your face. Made it a real blast to watch. 😁👍
I used to think I was pretty good playing a lot of gigs in NYC and Philly - but once I took a songwriter gig in Nashville I realized half the folk out of work there could blow 90% of all players out of the water. Them Thar country folk are insanely good
Susan Jenssen There seems to be an attraction of great musicians there. When great musicians are around you, you realize that you have to work really hard to keep up. I saw a bunch of 12 and 13 Year old Bluegrass players at an event there. They were all great.
RickJason Reverend Peyton has another good term particularly for the Appalachian bluegrass blues players, front porch trained. I don’t think there is anything like being a three year old and being shown what a guitar does right down on the floor right with me, like my dad did, and getting to feel the vibration of the strings. Of course he was trying to bribe me into keeping my mouth shut while he took the guitar away to hock for beer, but I happily disappointed him after the lesson, too funny! Anyway, it is the whole thing of at least someone in the family, church, or community, sometimes all three, making sure every young person is exposed as early and as often to closeup live music. I heard one old timer say it was the only old age insurance he had, to teach his children and grandchildren well enough to care for him when he could no longer play. He had a sign on his porch, tomatoes fifty cents, songs and stories, just shake the can. So if he heard the can rattle with some money in it he would come out with banjo, dulcimer, or happy jack, hang with you the rest of the afternoon even if you only bought two tomatoes! Learned happy jack from him but I’ll be damned if I can find a decent one anywhere. Oh well.A huge trick to really getting a kid started on an instrument is not to talk about lessons and practice hours, but say hey, look how cool this is, ya wanna try? My uncle took me to every live music performance imaginable, and if I wasn’t up on his shoulders he would just about set me down on the floor or grass practically under the musicians feet to watch. And he taught me never to be scared to sing along, no matter what the strangers and or relatives around us thought. That’s front porch trained.
Chet Atkins said this " Ricky Skaggs single handed saved Country music in the 80's". One of my favorite musician's since childhood, no matter what you were doing or where you were you knew who it was when Ricky came on the radio. Watching him play as a guitarist since childhood myself, i'm still mesmerized by his playing and seemingly effortless fret work.
Brilliant analysis. I continue to be impressed by your knowledge, perceptiveness, and intellectual and artistic appreciation of such a wide range of genres and styles and musical eras. It shows maturity and real intelligence. I’m not flattering; you’re truly excellent. I’m a old guy and an amateur who has learned a ton from you. Deep appreciation. (And, yes, Skaggs is beyond fabulous. I wonder if he rivaled Roy Clark in his excellence across a range of instruments?)
Both Ricky and Roy played guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle at a ridiculously high level. Just incredible instrumentalists (and singers) who could play anything with strings!
Great pedal steel players are a treasure. They have to play with great feel to pull off the swells, slides and vibrato, but the mind has to be fully engaged as well when engaging the pedals and knee levers. Great pedal steel players are generally geniuses in terms of understanding music theory.
I was Ricky’s steel player from 94 to almost 98. I grew up playing steel by learning Ricky’s music. When I auditioned, it was just me and Ricky playing together, no band. The reason Ricky hired me, was that I was an accomplished dobro player, very much Jerry Douglas style. I sure miss those days, and never tired of playing or hearing Ricky’s music. I left when he went all bluegrass. I wanted steel to be my main instrument, I didn’t want to play dobro full time. I still miss it though.
I’m assuming that your reply is insinuating that I’m lying. I get it, I understand, but it actually is the truth. I’ve been a pedal steel guitar player for 37 years. I’m from Missouri, and have worked shows in 2 very popular tourist destinations. I met Skaggs when I was working for an artist named Barbara Fairchild, in Branson MO. She happens to be very good friends with Ricky and his wife Sharon. I actually became friends with several of Skaggs’ band members, before I was acquainted with Ricky. At that particular time, Ricky’s steel player was a guy named Tim Sergent, he replaced Terry Crisp, the steel player in this video., I took Tim’s place in 1994, and stayed with Skaggs for 3 1/2 years. After Skaggs, I went to work for Tanya Tucker for a couple of years. Anyhow, that’s the truth, and I hope your uncle is happy, being a bicycle. LOL
@@dabneyoffermein595 One of the best guitarists who ever lived. Roy mainly recorded country music, but he could do anything. There's plenty of his work on RUclips; check out his 'Malaguena' for his skills in classical guitsr.
@@bwilliams463 wow , thanks, i did what you said and i just saw him do that on an episode of odd couple (or something like that), what a performance he put on!! i was stunned.
I really like that he let the band show off do the little solos. I think it's so much of a better performance when that happens. So many amazing musicians. I love it.
Thank you so much for these reviews. I really enjoy them, especially the credit that is given to some of the talent that is often overlooked because it’s “country”.
Always love your analysis. We need to find a way to bring this type of entertainment back and not just for country music but for musician of great caliber all around the world. I would love to see a show like this back on TV. Where we could once again experience these types of musicians just out there showing off their craft and making us all smile again. Thank you for doing what you're doing.
I played in a band with Rickies cousin Tim who may well be his cousins clone that family just produces high level multi instrumentalists insanely gifted Kentucky clan of bluegrass virtuosos
This is my favorite song that Ricky Skaggs has ever done. Great and unusual chord changes for a bluegrass-style song. And yes, the vocal harmonies are so good, along with the great playing!
Thank you for this analysis! Never fails to bring a smile to my face! For all the rock music I love, I have always loved country and bluegrass thanks to my parents!!❤
Ricky is one of my favorites! I haven't gotten a chance to see him play live, but I would love to! I love to hear him play the mandolin as well. There is a RUclips video of him playing the mandolin at age 7 on the Flatt and Scruggs show. He had played for Bill Monroe a year earlier. He brought him up on stage and played Bill Monroe's mandolin. When Ricky was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, they brought out Bill Monroe's mandolin for him to play, and I thought that he was going to start crying. He didn't want to give it back at the end.
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Ricky is one of my faves! He always attracts stellar talent to his backing bands. Plus, "country music big draws" nowadays seem to have forgotten the lap and pedal steel guitars and the fiddle, too! (Sigh...) Thanks for featuring Ricky and company, Fil! Glad you "rock" the country artists! 👍👌😃
His backup band has been family and he always plays Mandolin. That's his preferred instrument. I wonder how he would be on electric guitar? Most likely great. We won't ever see it because the great Bluegrass guys shun electric guitar publicly.
@@rickjason215 I was lucky enough to see him perform a few years back he was as great as ever. He's also very supportive to up comming musicians such as the Gibson Brothers,
I heard this song on my Classic Country radio station this week and I thought, “Fil should hear this!” I’m so pleased that you already had. I’m late to the game, watching your videos, but I am enjoying them greatly. Thank you for highlighting these great musicians.
Exactly Fil! You are spot on when you said a lot of people don't "appreciate" or "get it" ; the talent of these amazing players you showcase. As you have said many times, there are so many great players in country. I like rock but like country and blue grass too. Have you considered showcasing any of the mandolin players etc. in blue grass? Thanks for another great analysis!
I used to cover this tune on a three piece bluegrass band. That ending riff is a killer. I always just slopped my way through it hoping the fiddle would cover for me! Ricky is the king... And for sure, the country musicians and singers are top notch.
Saw Ricky in concert back in 1982. He was and is still amazing who can knock you off your seat. I’m glad you watched this. Watch more of RS you’ll be completely amazed with his talent.
The smile that comes on your face when you play these country and bluegrass (this song) videos is just wonderful. You smile with some of the other styles of music but not with the same joy. I love that there is such appreciation for the older styles of country and bluegrass. Good going!
In 1990 my band Against the Grain was on the same bill as Ricky Skaggs at a country festival in Dauphin Manitoba Canada and watched this from side stage. AMAZING. Great video ...thanks for the memory.
Wings, always a pleasure watching your analysis of such great artists. Means a lot to me as an American that a British cousin so appreciates the great abilities and creativity of country music. You are doing a great service to culture with your videos!
"NO where to breath" perfect description! I saw him in a small venue, maybe 4-500 people pre booked before he won Male Vocalist of the Year - 1982 in Dothan I think. it was 2 hours straight without a breath! He played everything, including playing around with a piece of tape that was keeping some value on an instrument. I was subbing for a friend doing some photography for the owner. Fun stuff! Lots of inserter pieces, like the 'lune tunes' Dixie, extra. It was wonderful.... 2nd only to watching 3/4 of 'Seldom Scene' playing behind/back porch of a rural instrument shop in NC.
Fill, what a joy your videos are. I love watching your reactions to the American pickers I grew up with. I am especially happy you did this video because I am an old friend of 'Picky Ricky" through my dad (the man on the bass..Jesse Chambers). Btw, this tune was written by Tony Colton, Ray Smith, and Albert Lee (all from Head Hands and Feet, out of England). God bless!
Thanks again for this vid. He was a 'child' bluegrass star and has been a performer all his life. Another one of those play anything with strings quite well guys. He played with all the Country greats, jammed with the best players around and held his own and more with all of them
That's correct: he got his start on TV in 1960 playing one show with Bill Monroe, and then a year later on Flatt and Scruggs' show, both times singing the Osborne Brothers' "Ruby (Are You Mad at Your Man?)" Then, during 1970, he and the late Keith Whitley (1954-1989) were invited by Ralph Stanley into his Clinch Mountain Boys, after he witnessed the pair singing covers of Stanley Brothers songs. In 1977, Emmylou Harris invited him into her Hot Band to replace Rodney Crowell, who left to form his own band, the Cherry Bombs. In 1981, Skaggs released his first major label solo album, Waitin' for the Sun to Shine, which featured a cover of Flatt and Scruggs' "Don't Get Above Your Raisin'." Two years later, he had his first country #1 hit with a cover of "Uncle Pen," which was written by his mentor and fellow Kentucky native Bill Monroe (Monroe wrote the track in 1950 to honor his own uncle and musical mentor, Pendleton Vandiver).
Fil, You are the Man! Fantastic review of Ricky and his band! I always enjoy how in a band like this, each musician gets a turn to strut their stuff! Very entertaining. Well Done, Fil you Rock 🤘
Hi! As always, wonderful commentary! My grandfather played guitar in the 1960s with Buck Owen's and the Buckaroos. He also did one tour with Roger Miller. Granddaddy had to give up the touring because he had 7 mouths to feed. So, he had a successful career as a mason(bricklayer). He helped build the school of the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri. Lol, forgive me. I have once again started to ramble and get off subject. Yes, Ricky Skaggs is one of the best guitar players in the world and that is no joke. I LOVE LOVE BLUEGRASS!! Everyone should agree, IT IS SOOOOO GOOD FOR THE SOUL. Again, this is a beautiful show!🎼🎵🎶🎤✝️ 🎸🎸🎸🎸
Thank you Fil. Another change of what I thought about a musician. I thought of him as a singer, but what a guitarist. It seems this happens with country music folks. Roy, Glen, Vince Gill and now Ricky - guys now that I appreciate on a whole new level. You analysises are top notch!
Great choice! Saw them in concert a few times, blew me away!! Consistently great. I just found you and love how your enthusiasm for good guitar playing, of any kind! Also respect how you break things down
I remember driving home from work and listening to the radio when his first song came on, and it was 'Don't get above your raising' and i told my friend that guy's going to be a real star. Over twenty five years ago and i still remember smiling all the way through the song.
I got to play with Ricky at a bluegrass festival. The only thing better than his playing is his kindness. He gave me some advice and walked me through a few things, and later I watched him at a meet and greet and he treated his fans with some much genuine love and respect it was so refreshing to see. later that night he was sighing autographs for everyone until the line was done. There must have been 500 people in that line and he shook hands and looked them directly in the eyes and asked their names and would answer questions and take pictures, just a great guy
I really admire your ability to appreciate this music for what it is. I’m Southern born and bred, in South Carolina, USA, and this is the kind of music I grew up with and love, although I really love all genres.
I had the Good Fortune to see Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder live here locally three different times. Each time was phenomenal. The audience would explode with Applause and appreciation after each number. The talent in the band is simply unbelievable. Thanks for reviewing a Bluegrass treasure
So delighted to watch you watch the incredible talent of Ricky Scaggs and his fellow musicians. Glad, too, that you voiced an appreciation of their vocal harmonies.
Awwww Fil!!.... you played another favorite country artist of mine!! I was able to see Ricky Skaggs at a Fourth of July concert here in Illinois in 1996 he is absolutely fantastic live!! They make performing look like a walk in the park but musicians like yourself know better! And Ricky's voice is so Pure Country! Thanks Fil!..going to watch this many times✌❤🤘
One of my absolute favorite performances I've ever seen was Ricky, and Ry Cooder backed by various family members. Stunning show incredible harmony singing. I appreciate how you express the level of virtuosity of the players. Ricky and his bands are simply mind blowing- off the charts. Have you seen any of the live stuff he did with Emmylou's Hot Band? Extraordinary.
When I'm in the mood to play along, there are some tunes I won't even attempt because I don't have the speed. Then there are others - like this one - that almost makes my ears cry when I attempt to HEAR what he's doing. Also worth noting that at the time of my post, this video has not received a single thumbs down. Kudos Ace.
Hah! As a punk rocker, and looking ever the part, back in the 80's, I purchased tickets to a Ricky Skaggs concert and was blown away. The next morning, when I encountered Ricky and some of the band on State St in Santa Barbara, CA, and expressed my appreciation, he shook my hand while looking at me as if puzzling how it was that I came to be attending his concert. He's so talented and very cool.
I am so impressed by your knowledge of all the bands and singers, how they perform. I was raised in a musical family. My dad played harmonica, my aunt played violin, I and my sister sang and I played piano
I knew nothing of Bluegrass Players and a musician friend who was a big Bluegrass guy said you are missing out on some of the best players and he was right.
Fil, everything about this made me smile. From the mind-boggling greatness of the musicianship, to your laser-accurate analysis, to the smile that it put on your face. Well done, sir!
Another perfectly on target critique by Fil!!! Your knowledge, enthusiasm and appreciation for the musicians you review make for the best entertainment on RUclips!! I look forward to every new review and enjoy going back to watch my favorite ones again!! Keep up the excellent work Fil!! Btw, so glad to see that you appreciate Bluegrass musicians! Ricky Skaggs is one of the best!!!
Daddy played bluegrass fiddle with the Stanley Brothers in the 50's. 🎻 He also played, banjo, mandolin, guitar.... I grew up hearing Bluegrass until he died.
You can tell how much Fil likes the music or performer he is reviewing by how long he smiles during the performance. Nothing not to like about this one for sure.
This is my favorite performance on guitar. Ricky Skaggs is the best fast picker on acoustic guitar, IMHO. Thank you for your continued great analysis of these fantastic players.
I just love this type of country. This was back when country was genuine country. I'm still astonished that the piano player played that part with one hand.
I saw Ricky Skaggs his band at the University Arena in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on 10/30/1982 and again on 8/3/1990 at Fannie Hill Theater and I was blown away both times. I wish country music were still this way.
The country musicians of the 80's and early 90's were just awesome performers. Ricky Skaggs, Allison Krause and Union Station, John Michael Montgomery, and the list goes on. So much talent.
Ricky Scaggs was the first country cassette tape I bought. I was 15 in 1980 and Blondie and other new wave / club music was becoming the new rage. Thank you for what you do.
They’re so good because there’s nowhere to hide. It’s just the clean music so you better be a monster musician. Don’t forget that so many Country players are also top flight studio musicians churning out those hits in a city that’s soul purpose is to make great music and tons of money. Love your passion about this one.
My best friend is a guy from Dunfermline Scotland named Craig McVeigh. He used to scream at me when I'd blast The Pinecone Bluegrass Show over Teamspeak Sunday evenings as we'd fly WW2 fighters, or join in killing in FPS shooters online. I would try to explain the songwriting and instrument talents of American Country Artists, but he would not hear it! You are a breath of fresh air!
I'm from Dunfermline Scotland as well. My son is a good guitarist and turns 30 in October. He's getting in to country music so I've directed him to Ricky Skaggs, Vince Gill and Albert Lee so he can't look back. Happy listening friend!
Saw him live in Sacramento about 1979 on a crummy little stage in the ?Raddison Hotel? banquet room... at one point the power to the instruments/amps/microphones died ... Ricky just stood there and sang ACapella ... what an amazing talent! (I am addicted to your videos Fil ... gah ... I need to get to work, but ... just one more video first ... )
Ricky is a gentleman, Christian and a badarse picker & multi instrumentalist. This song was written by Brit geetar picker Albert Lee. ✨🎸 his lp with just pal Tony Rice only is when Skaggs was very young and is fabulous!
I listened to Marty Robbins doing El Paso the other day. The whole song is virtuoso. The vocals are spot on every note he hits like a bullseye. And the guitar is superb.
Well said Fil, country music is so brilliant. I feel the “new” country is killing country style and the use of instruments. Thanks again for your intellect and covering the different types of music.
J C By the way, I love that posh Brit accent usually but “gr-ah-ss?”. The first commenter was right. I’m from the heart of bluegrass country. We say “gr-ass” with a long “a” like “Macron is an asshole.”
Fil, with your apparent love of American roots music, you need a trip to Merlefest. The premiere American roots music festival. 13 stages filled with the best in Bluegrass, Country, Country/Rock, Gospel, Folk ........ 4 days of incredible music like this.
Phil, just a great analysis here. I’m so impressed that you understand the nature and the challenges of high-level flatpicking. It looks like rickies on a D18. The action is higher and the strings are thicker than on an electric and the string attack has to be way more physical. The acoustic does not have the sustain of an electric so the right hand has to stay busy all the time so consequently eighth and sixteenth notes fly out. When you’re good at this type of playing it’s real accomplishment! Great work on this one Phil!
Thanks Fil. Glad things are back to normal. You had me worried after yesterday's review. Please don't scare us like that again. I'm still a bit shaken up.
You are so amazing, Professor! Great to see your million dollar smile again! Excellent analysis, I love the way you explain the performers techniques and the musical intricacies! 🌟
Ricky Skaggs .. a true musician, he can absolutely play anything with strings. He and Kieth Whitley, true bluegrass boys . I enjoy watching you Fil watch and enjoying the playing 😂. And yes the band is awesome , love me a little steel guitar. Bluegrass bands pride themselves on vocal harmonies. BEAUTIFUL! Playing music to Ricky Skaggs is like breathing, it’s just natural.❤️
Not sure you're looking at these comments from a 4 year old reaction, but.... I really like that you research the artist, the bandmates, and the history for your reactions. It completes the package. Good job Phil.
Genuine appreciation for the vocals and musicianship.. Country bluegrass boy from the States here. Thanks for the spot on analysis dude!!
Ricky Skaggs is an absolute musical monster and that band is brilliant.
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William Hampton You ain't lying. I saw him live and it was mind blowing. Players with him were as well. I see bluegrass and country picking prowess as I see the same virtuosity of jazz and classical musicians. I have mad respect this. I play sax,. keyboards, drums and flute, but the guitar and strings I can't figure out. It sucks, but that's why I respect those who can play.
Go see him live
It's mind blowing
Your life will never be the same💜❤️ ricky and Kentucky thunder⚡⚡⚡⛈️⛈️⛈️
Like peanut butter and jelly
Kentucky Thunder is the name of Ricky’s band.
Use of "monster" reflects immersion in satanic-led cultural swamp.
Thank you, I absolutely enjoy your analogy of these performances.
This drummer was a dear friend.
RIP Martin Parker.
The perfection in these country artists is absolutely ridiculous . Makes one realize what talent , and dedication actually looks like .
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They don't miss a note do they? Pure talent.
@Geoff Longford Modern country music is different. These old guys were raised on it, and it's beautiful stuff.
@@elchicharron9503 The old country music is the best. The new stuff, not so much.
Just saw Ricky last night at Ozark Music Festival in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas. He’s still laying it down perfect. Thank you for sharing Wings of Pegasus
Ricky Skaggs was discovered by Bill Monroe when he was a child. One of the greatest country talents ever.
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Ricky actually first appeared on a Flatt & Scruggs show at the age of 7. Here's a link: ruclips.net/video/Oh0Py4fNRqc/видео.html
Allen Woodall he got on stage with bill Monroe and he got on the stage on flat and Scruggs show when he was 7 Ricky told the story how he got on stage with bill but bill hurried him off pretty quick but flat and Scruggs treated him good the video is called young Ricky Skaggs check it out
Him and Keith Whitley toured with Ralph Stanley when they were young.
Ricky was already a well know local celeb by the time he played with Bill. Lester and Earl actually helped Ricky way more, featuring him on their tv show several times.
I really admire your appreciation and willingness to analyze these country artists. I feel like many fans of rock are quick to dismiss these players on genre alone, and you certainly do an excellent job of pointing out the skill it takes to perform at their level. Very enjoyable, keep up the great work!
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wags I thought I only liked rock till my husband took me to see Ricky, one of the best concerts ever, his band was having so much fun we didn’t need to be there, I felt like we were spying on them. Changed my mind & broadened my music taste. I love Fil, his deep love of music is so apparent. I learn a lot, too.
I agree.
You are correct. I can see how this guy really enjoys listing to and watching these really good musicians.
wags yes sir - I totally agree again thanks for seeing and analyzing such great pickin:)
He started playing very young. He played with the Stanley Brothers and in Emmylou Harris's band. And he's my second cousin. Great guy, BTW.
this is back when music was fun, I sure miss it.
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These soy-boy phony baloney wannabes that call themselves country singers -players, couldn't carry Ricky Skaggs guitar case. Ricky is such a great player, and that band - ooooh my, hard to put into words. Great just great !!!
First let me say that I am 67. My Teen-age years were the mid 60's and onward. So, I grew up with some incredible music from the 60's and through the 70's. I'm not gonna even try and start naming even some of the great bands...it would take hrs...LOL..!! My Mother studied piano and voice when she was at a University, and was asked to go audition for the New York Metropolitan Opera as an opera singer. She chose instead to get married and just be a housewife and raise kids. But she taught piano to other children and taught choir a lot too. I was raised listening to many of the great musicals like OKLAHOMA ! and SOUTH PACIFIC and CAROUSEL and I was also in choirs throughout my Elementary and Jr. High years. But, I was also always on the "A" team in football and was a fast runner in track. I think that I had a well rounded background in not only music but in athletics. I will always be very thankful for that. Now my point that I want to make. I enjoy a wide variety of music but I think that one of the purest forms of music is Bluegrass. It can't be faked, it's not auto-tuned or produced by 1 person using a keyboard with sampling . Nope...good Bluegrass takes real musicians playing real instruments and singing with real voices. It can't get any purer and honest than this.
This was extremely fun to watch. Not only the skills and music, but the appreciation for what was going on was written all over your face. Made it a real blast to watch. 😁👍
oh, one other observation. look at how the bandmates are so much enjoying the amazing playing of each other. their facial expressions say it all.
I used to think I was pretty good playing a lot of gigs in NYC and Philly - but once I took a songwriter gig in Nashville I realized half the folk out of work there could blow 90% of all players out of the water. Them Thar country folk are insanely good
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Sue Rarick There’s even a song about that, called Nashville Cats.
Susan Jenssen There seems to be an attraction of great musicians there. When great musicians are around you, you realize that you have to work really hard to keep up. I saw a bunch of 12 and 13 Year old Bluegrass players at an event there. They were all great.
RickJason Reverend Peyton has another good term particularly for the Appalachian bluegrass blues players, front porch trained. I don’t think there is anything like being a three year old and being shown what a guitar does right down on the floor right with me, like my dad did, and getting to feel the vibration of the strings. Of course he was trying to bribe me into keeping my mouth shut while he took the guitar away to hock for beer, but I happily disappointed him after the lesson, too funny! Anyway, it is the whole thing of at least someone in the family, church, or community, sometimes all three, making sure every young person is exposed as early and as often to closeup live music. I heard one old timer say it was the only old age insurance he had, to teach his children and grandchildren well enough to care for him when he could no longer play. He had a sign on his porch, tomatoes fifty cents, songs and stories, just shake the can. So if he heard the can rattle with some money in it he would come out with banjo, dulcimer, or happy jack, hang with you the rest of the afternoon even if you only bought two tomatoes! Learned happy jack from him but I’ll be damned if I can find a decent one anywhere. Oh well.A huge trick to really getting a kid started on an instrument is not to talk about lessons and practice hours, but say hey, look how cool this is, ya wanna try? My uncle took me to every live music performance imaginable, and if I wasn’t up on his shoulders he would just about set me down on the floor or grass practically under the musicians feet to watch. And he taught me never to be scared to sing along, no matter what the strangers and or relatives around us thought. That’s front porch trained.
HA HA! Just like John Sebastian sang in "Nashville Cats"! Thought he was just using poetic license...who knew?
Chet Atkins said this " Ricky Skaggs single handed saved Country music in the 80's". One of my favorite musician's since childhood, no matter what you were doing or where you were you knew who it was when Ricky came on the radio. Watching him play as a guitarist since childhood myself, i'm still mesmerized by his playing and seemingly effortless fret work.
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very true....
Aw good old check Adkins like the road hog would say
Thanks, Phil. Really most extraordinary!
Brilliant analysis. I continue to be impressed by your knowledge, perceptiveness, and intellectual and artistic appreciation of such a wide range of genres and styles and musical eras. It shows maturity and real intelligence. I’m not flattering; you’re truly excellent. I’m a old guy and an amateur who has learned a ton from you. Deep appreciation. (And, yes, Skaggs is beyond fabulous. I wonder if he rivaled Roy Clark in his excellence across a range of instruments?)
Thanks! I think Roy played a few more instruments!
I totally agree. I don't know enough to know if you're pulling our leg or not, but I enjoy your work.
Well Ricky was aided and abetted by Roy Clark when he was a youngster.
Both Ricky and Roy played guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle at a ridiculously high level. Just incredible instrumentalists (and singers) who could play anything with strings!
Other great country guitarists are Buck Owen's and Jerry Reed...
Great pedal steel players are a treasure. They have to play with great feel to pull off the swells, slides and vibrato, but the mind has to be fully engaged as well when engaging the pedals and knee levers. Great pedal steel players are generally geniuses in terms of understanding music theory.
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I was Ricky’s steel player from 94 to almost 98. I grew up playing steel by learning Ricky’s music. When I auditioned, it was just me and Ricky playing together, no band. The reason Ricky hired me, was that I was an accomplished dobro player, very much Jerry Douglas style. I sure miss those days, and never tired of playing or hearing Ricky’s music. I left when he went all bluegrass. I wanted steel to be my main instrument, I didn’t want to play dobro full time. I still miss it though.
@@steelarama 😲😲😲💗
@@steelaramamy uncle is a bicycle
I’m assuming that your reply is insinuating that I’m lying. I get it, I understand, but it actually is the truth. I’ve been a pedal steel guitar player for 37 years. I’m from Missouri, and have worked shows in 2 very popular tourist destinations. I met Skaggs when I was working for an artist named Barbara Fairchild, in Branson MO. She happens to be very good friends with Ricky and his wife Sharon. I actually became friends with several of Skaggs’ band members, before I was acquainted with Ricky. At that particular time, Ricky’s steel player was a guy named Tim Sergent, he replaced Terry Crisp, the steel player in this video., I took Tim’s place in 1994, and stayed with Skaggs for 3 1/2 years. After Skaggs, I went to work for Tanya Tucker for a couple of years. Anyhow, that’s the truth, and I hope your uncle is happy, being a bicycle. LOL
Ricky Skaggs is like Roy Clark: They can play anything with strings. They could play a tune on your boot laces.
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who's roy clark?
@@dabneyoffermein595 One of the best guitarists who ever lived. Roy mainly recorded country music, but he could do anything. There's plenty of his work on RUclips; check out his 'Malaguena' for his skills in classical guitsr.
@@bwilliams463 wow , thanks, i did what you said and i just saw him do that on an episode of odd couple (or something like that), what a performance he put on!! i was stunned.
@@dabneyoffermein595 that's the guy with two first names! duh. he also plays guitar some...so he has that goin' for him too
Wow, for a band to play live and so in sync like that, you can't help but applaud regardless of your musical preference!!!🤘🤘
Its fun to watch how much the commentator enjoys good instrumental play .(huge smile)
I really like that he let the band show off do the little solos. I think it's so much of a better performance when that happens. So many amazing musicians. I love it.
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It's pretty typical in a bluegrass band for every instrument to play a break or solo
Really a joy to watch...lighting fast, and flawless. Scary good......thanks for breaking it apart for us, Fil.
Thank you so much for these reviews. I really enjoy them, especially the credit that is given to some of the talent that is often overlooked because it’s “country”.
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Always love your analysis. We need to find a way to bring this type of entertainment back and not just for country music but for musician of great caliber all around the world. I would love to see a show like this back on TV. Where we could once again experience these types of musicians just out there showing off their craft and making us all smile again. Thank you for doing what you're doing.
I played in a band with Rickies cousin Tim who may well be his cousins clone that family just produces high level multi instrumentalists insanely gifted Kentucky clan of bluegrass virtuosos
Cool!
This is my favorite song that Ricky Skaggs has ever done. Great and unusual chord changes for a bluegrass-style song. And yes, the vocal harmonies are so good, along with the great playing!
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Written by English guys and first performed by them; the band Heads,Hands and Feet. Featuring amongst others Albert Lee and Chas Hodges.
Thank you for this analysis! Never fails to bring a smile to my face! For all the rock music I love, I have always loved country and bluegrass thanks to my parents!!❤
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Ricky is one of my favorites! I haven't gotten a chance to see him play live, but I would love to! I love to hear him play the mandolin as well. There is a RUclips video of him playing the mandolin at age 7 on the Flatt and Scruggs show. He had played for Bill Monroe a year earlier. He brought him up on stage and played Bill Monroe's mandolin. When Ricky was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, they brought out Bill Monroe's mandolin for him to play, and I thought that he was going to start crying. He didn't want to give it back at the end.
Ricky is one of my faves! He always attracts stellar talent to his backing bands. Plus, "country music big draws" nowadays seem to have forgotten the lap and pedal steel guitars and the fiddle, too! (Sigh...) Thanks for featuring Ricky and company, Fil! Glad you "rock" the country artists! 👍👌😃
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His backup band has been family and he always plays Mandolin. That's his preferred instrument. I wonder how he would be on electric guitar? Most likely great. We won't ever see it because the great Bluegrass guys shun electric guitar publicly.
Years ago after his run in country music he returned to his roots in bluegrass and been happy and successful ever since.
@@johnharris7751 His band won several Bluegrass awards. They are terrific.
@@rickjason215 I was lucky enough to see him perform a few years back he was as great as ever. He's also very supportive to up comming musicians such as the Gibson Brothers,
I heard this song on my Classic Country radio station this week and I thought, “Fil should hear this!” I’m so pleased that you already had. I’m late to the game, watching your videos, but I am enjoying them greatly. Thank you for highlighting these great musicians.
Exactly Fil! You are spot on when you said a lot of people don't "appreciate" or "get it" ; the talent of these amazing players you showcase. As you have said many times, there are so many great players in country. I like rock but like country and blue grass too. Have you considered showcasing any of the mandolin players etc. in blue grass? Thanks for another great analysis!
No problem!
Wings of Pegasus, thank you for a brilliant analysis of Ricky Skaggs and his band.
I used to cover this tune on a three piece bluegrass band. That ending riff is a killer. I always just slopped my way through it hoping the fiddle would cover for me! Ricky is the king... And for sure, the country musicians and singers are top notch.
Saw Ricky in concert back in 1982. He was and is still amazing who can knock you off your seat. I’m glad you watched this. Watch more of RS you’ll be completely amazed with his talent.
The smile that comes on your face when you play these country and bluegrass (this song) videos is just wonderful. You smile with some of the other styles of music but not with the same joy. I love that there is such appreciation for the older styles of country and bluegrass. Good going!
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In 1990 my band Against the Grain was on the same bill as Ricky Skaggs at a country festival in Dauphin Manitoba Canada and watched this from side stage. AMAZING. Great video ...thanks for the memory.
Wings, always a pleasure watching your analysis of such great artists. Means a lot to me as an American that a British cousin so appreciates the great abilities and creativity of country music. You are doing a great service to culture with your videos!
"NO where to breath" perfect description!
I saw him in a small venue, maybe 4-500 people pre booked before he won Male Vocalist of the Year - 1982 in Dothan I think. it was 2 hours straight without a breath! He played everything, including playing around with a piece of tape that was keeping some value on an instrument. I was subbing for a friend doing some photography for the owner. Fun stuff! Lots of inserter pieces, like the 'lune tunes' Dixie, extra. It was wonderful.... 2nd only to watching 3/4 of 'Seldom Scene' playing behind/back porch of a rural instrument shop in NC.
Fill, what a joy your videos are. I love watching your reactions to the American pickers I grew up with. I am especially happy you did this video because I am an old friend of 'Picky Ricky" through my dad (the man on the bass..Jesse Chambers). Btw, this tune was written by Tony Colton, Ray Smith, and Albert Lee (all from Head Hands and Feet, out of England). God bless!
Thanks!
Excellent analysis/commentary Fil...one of your best!
Thanks Peter!
I'm a steel player myself and I know for a fact that Ricki only hires musicians who are at the top of their A game!
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That steel player looks like he had to really concentrate to keep up
Thanks again for this vid. He was a 'child' bluegrass star and has been a performer all his life. Another one of those play anything with strings quite well guys. He played with all the Country greats, jammed with the best players around and held his own and more with all of them
No problem!
That's correct: he got his start on TV in 1960 playing one show with Bill Monroe, and then a year later on Flatt and Scruggs' show, both times singing the Osborne Brothers' "Ruby (Are You Mad at Your Man?)"
Then, during 1970, he and the late Keith Whitley (1954-1989) were invited by Ralph Stanley into his Clinch Mountain Boys, after he witnessed the pair singing covers of Stanley Brothers songs. In 1977, Emmylou Harris invited him into her Hot Band to replace Rodney Crowell, who left to form his own band, the Cherry Bombs.
In 1981, Skaggs released his first major label solo album, Waitin' for the Sun to Shine, which featured a cover of Flatt and Scruggs' "Don't Get Above Your Raisin'." Two years later, he had his first country #1 hit with a cover of "Uncle Pen," which was written by his mentor and fellow Kentucky native Bill Monroe (Monroe wrote the track in 1950 to honor his own uncle and musical mentor, Pendleton Vandiver).
Fil, You are the Man! Fantastic review of Ricky and his band! I always enjoy how in a band like this, each musician gets a turn to strut their stuff! Very entertaining. Well Done, Fil you Rock 🤘
Thanks Paul!
Hi! As always, wonderful commentary! My grandfather played guitar in the 1960s with Buck Owen's and the Buckaroos. He also did one tour with Roger Miller. Granddaddy had to give up the touring because he had 7 mouths to feed. So, he had a successful career as a mason(bricklayer). He helped build the school of the Ozarks in Branson, Missouri. Lol, forgive me. I have once again started to ramble and get off subject. Yes, Ricky Skaggs is one of the best guitar players in the world and that is no joke. I LOVE LOVE BLUEGRASS!! Everyone should agree, IT IS SOOOOO GOOD FOR THE SOUL. Again, this is a beautiful show!🎼🎵🎶🎤✝️ 🎸🎸🎸🎸
Thank you Fil. Another change of what I thought about a musician. I thought of him as a singer, but what a guitarist. It seems this happens with country music folks. Roy, Glen, Vince Gill and now Ricky - guys now that I appreciate on a whole new level. You analysises are top notch!
No problem!
Great choice! Saw them in concert a few times, blew me away!! Consistently great.
I just found you and love how your enthusiasm for good guitar playing, of any kind! Also respect how you break things down
I remember driving home from work and listening to the radio when his first song came on, and it was 'Don't get above your raising' and i told my friend that guy's going to be a real star. Over twenty five years ago and i still remember smiling all the way through the song.
e has been a star for over 50 years now, having charted many hits 25 years ago or more.
I got to play with Ricky at a bluegrass festival. The only thing better than his playing is his kindness. He gave me some advice and walked me through a few things, and later I watched him at a meet and greet and he treated his fans with some much genuine love and respect it was so refreshing to see. later that night he was sighing autographs for everyone until the line was done. There must have been 500 people in that line and he shook hands and looked them directly in the eyes and asked their names and would answer questions and take pictures, just a great guy
Cool!
Dinky Dot that's about goodness and letting your light shine and it's inspiring
If you wanna play with Ricky, you'd better be damned good.
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I really admire your ability to appreciate this music for what it is. I’m Southern born and bred, in South Carolina, USA, and this is the kind of music I grew up with and love, although I really love all genres.
Now this is the music I was raised on!
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Just landed on this one...wow! I can't imagine who would give this a thumbs down, but it was a definite thumbs up from me!
This is burning.... great analysis, again, Fil. Learning so much here....!
Thanks!
I had the Good Fortune to see Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder live here locally three different times. Each time was phenomenal. The audience would explode with Applause and appreciation after each number. The talent in the band is simply unbelievable. Thanks for reviewing a Bluegrass treasure
So delighted to watch you watch the incredible talent of Ricky Scaggs and his fellow musicians. Glad, too, that you voiced an appreciation of their vocal harmonies.
Just saw Ricky skaggs last night live. Phenomenal still!
Awwww Fil!!.... you played another favorite country artist of mine!! I was able to see Ricky Skaggs at a Fourth of July concert here in Illinois in 1996 he is absolutely fantastic live!! They make performing look like a walk in the park but musicians like yourself know better! And Ricky's voice is so Pure Country! Thanks Fil!..going to watch this many times✌❤🤘
Cool!
Lori Pond, I think I attended the same concert.
You’re so awesome! Thank you!, Great reaction ❤️
Thanks!
One of my absolute favorite performances I've ever seen was Ricky, and Ry Cooder backed by various family members. Stunning show incredible harmony singing.
I appreciate how you express the level of virtuosity of the players. Ricky and his bands are simply mind blowing- off the charts.
Have you seen any of the live stuff he did with Emmylou's Hot Band? Extraordinary.
Cool!
When I'm in the mood to play along, there are some tunes I won't even attempt because I don't have the speed. Then there are others - like this one - that almost makes my ears cry when I attempt to HEAR what he's doing.
Also worth noting that at the time of my post, this video has not received a single thumbs down. Kudos Ace.
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Hah! As a punk rocker, and looking ever the part, back in the 80's, I purchased tickets to a Ricky Skaggs concert and was blown away. The next morning, when I encountered Ricky and some of the band on State St in Santa Barbara, CA, and expressed my appreciation, he shook my hand while looking at me as if puzzling how it was that I came to be attending his concert. He's so talented and very cool.
Haha cool!
I am so impressed by your knowledge of all the bands and singers, how they perform. I was raised in a musical family. My dad played harmonica, my aunt played violin, I and my sister sang and I played piano
I knew nothing of Bluegrass Players and a musician friend who was a big Bluegrass guy said you are missing out on some of the best players and he was right.
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Great analysis from a musical standpoint and yes he should have been put in the Country Music Hall of fame a long time ago.
Fil, everything about this made me smile. From the mind-boggling greatness of the musicianship, to your laser-accurate analysis, to the smile that it put on your face. Well done, sir!
Thanks Carl!
Another perfectly on target critique by Fil!!! Your knowledge, enthusiasm and appreciation for the musicians you review make for the best entertainment on RUclips!! I look forward to every new review and enjoy going back to watch my favorite ones again!! Keep up the excellent work Fil!! Btw, so glad to see that you appreciate Bluegrass musicians! Ricky Skaggs is one of the best!!!
My Dad played bluegrass music... Ricky Skaggs is amazing then and still is in his Golden Years. Wish Daddy was still with us.... lost him in 2010.
Daddy played bluegrass fiddle with the Stanley Brothers in the 50's. 🎻 He also played, banjo, mandolin, guitar.... I grew up hearing Bluegrass until he died.
You can tell how much Fil likes the music or performer he is reviewing by how long he smiles during the performance. Nothing not to like about this one for sure.
This is my favorite performance on guitar. Ricky Skaggs is the best fast picker on acoustic guitar, IMHO. Thank you for your continued great analysis of these fantastic players.
And mandolin. And probably another other hundred instruments!
That was fun to watch 😃
Thanks! 🖤🤘🏽
I just love this type of country. This was back when country was genuine country. I'm still astonished that the piano player played that part with one hand.
I saw Ricky Skaggs his band at the University Arena in Eau Claire, Wisconsin on 10/30/1982 and again on 8/3/1990 at Fannie Hill Theater and I was blown away both times.
I wish country music were still this way.
Cool!
The country musicians of the 80's and early 90's were just awesome performers. Ricky Skaggs, Allison Krause and Union Station, John Michael Montgomery, and the list goes on. So much talent.
Country Rocks! Love that you did Ricky! He's one hell of a musician! Great as always Fil! ROCK!
No problem!
I see where Ricky brought all of the best studio musicians with him! What a solid band.
the fiddle player was in his hit video (on the bus) along with the father of bluegrass, Bill Monroe.
Ricky Scaggs was the first country cassette tape I bought. I was 15 in 1980 and Blondie and other new wave / club music was becoming the new rage. Thank you for what you do.
Kentucky Thunder has to be one of the tightest bands I’ve ever seen.
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Kentucky Thunder is a great band, but this video is before he turned that band. This group is called "they boys in the band"
Hell of a Band ain't them boys Fil?
Yes a joy!! Freaking awesome vocals as well. Thank you!
They’re so good because there’s nowhere to hide. It’s just the clean music so you better be a monster musician. Don’t forget that so many Country players are also top flight studio musicians churning out those hits in a city that’s soul purpose is to make great music and tons of money. Love your passion about this one.
My best friend is a guy from Dunfermline Scotland named Craig McVeigh. He used to scream at me when I'd blast The Pinecone Bluegrass Show over Teamspeak Sunday evenings as we'd fly WW2 fighters, or join in killing in FPS shooters online. I would try to explain the songwriting and instrument talents of American Country Artists, but he would not hear it!
You are a breath of fresh air!
Thanks!
I'm from Dunfermline Scotland as well. My son is a good guitarist and turns 30 in October. He's getting in to country music so I've directed him to Ricky Skaggs, Vince Gill and Albert Lee so he can't look back. Happy listening friend!
What Fil does is gold....he understands the difficulty with performing these tunes ..
Saw him live in Sacramento about 1979 on a crummy little stage in the ?Raddison Hotel? banquet room... at one point the power to the instruments/amps/microphones died ... Ricky just stood there and sang ACapella ... what an amazing talent! (I am addicted to your videos Fil ... gah ... I need to get to work, but ... just one more video first ... )
Ricky is a gentleman, Christian and a badarse picker & multi instrumentalist. This song was written by Brit geetar picker Albert Lee. ✨🎸 his lp with just pal Tony Rice only is when Skaggs was very young and is fabulous!
I listened to Marty Robbins doing El Paso the other day. The whole song is virtuoso. The vocals are spot on every note he hits like a bullseye. And the guitar is superb.
Well said Fil, country music is so brilliant. I feel the “new” country is killing country style and the use of instruments. Thanks again for your intellect and covering the different types of music.
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Yep, you just witnessed the golden age of face melting country.
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Love how WOP brings up these great musicians regardless of the genre. You are a great voice for musicians.
Thanks!
I catch myself holding my breath with a performance like this!
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I've been a fan of Ricky since I was young. Another great analysis video as always.
Thanks Danny!
To hear the word “bluegrass” spoken with a posh British accent gave me a chuckle...
{ :- D)
As does hearing Americans speak English.
@@JC-yb3zb American English, sir.
@@maryplaidy6814 Thanks for the chuckle...
J C By the way, I love that posh Brit accent usually but “gr-ah-ss?”. The first commenter was right. I’m from the heart of bluegrass country. We say “gr-ass” with a long “a” like “Macron is an asshole.”
Ha ha, love it. He's not posh just well spoken. A fellow English man.
Fil, with your apparent love of American roots music, you need a trip to Merlefest. The premiere American roots music festival.
13 stages filled with the best in Bluegrass, Country, Country/Rock, Gospel, Folk ........ 4 days of incredible music like this.
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Merlefest is amazing.
@@fiteboss I do believe it is my favorite place in the world.
Phil, just a great analysis here. I’m so impressed that you understand the nature and the challenges of high-level flatpicking. It looks like rickies on a D18. The action is higher and the strings are thicker than on an electric and the string attack has to be way more physical. The acoustic does not have the sustain of an electric so the right hand has to stay busy all the time so consequently eighth and sixteenth notes fly out. When you’re good at this type of playing it’s real accomplishment! Great work on this one Phil!
Thanks! No problem!
Thanks Fil. Glad things are back to normal. You had me worried after yesterday's review. Please don't scare us like that again. I'm still a bit shaken up.
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You are so amazing, Professor! Great to see your million dollar smile again! Excellent analysis, I love the way you explain the performers techniques and the musical intricacies! 🌟
Excellent choice. Ricky is an amazing p layer.looking forward to seeing you do Jerry Douglas soon.
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Seeing this video increases my appreciation for this song and Ricky's musical talent. Thanks for your analysis.
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Ricky Skaggs is a rare talent!!
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The JOY is watching your response be the same as mine. Picking our jaws from the ground in amazement!
Ricky Skaggs .. a true musician, he can absolutely play anything with strings. He and Kieth Whitley, true bluegrass boys . I enjoy watching you Fil watch and enjoying the playing 😂. And yes the band is awesome , love me a little steel guitar. Bluegrass bands pride themselves on vocal harmonies. BEAUTIFUL! Playing music to Ricky Skaggs is like breathing, it’s just natural.❤️
Fil, I just heard you sing and play, Goodness my boy, you are gifted. Effortless, Clean, and True. You have a new fan.
Thanks Abby!