Ricky Skaggs

American Country-Western singer whose roots and sound are pure bluegrass, western swing and traditional country, with vocals that are mountain-flavored. He dominated the country charts in the early '80s with No.1 singles and gold albums. Skaggs was named the CMA Award as male vocalist of the year in 1982 and Entertainer of the Year in 1985.

A child prodigy in bluegrass terms, he was on TV at seven and joined Ralph Stanley's Band at 15. A tenor vocalist, he was adept at high harmonies as well as being skilled on mandolin, fiddle, acoustic guitar and banjo. He had his own band and played for three years with Emmy Lou Harris.

In 1980, Skaggs went solo, creating top albums with chart-topping singles. A breath of fresh air, he has a pure country style and sharp instrumentation.