The Big Interview with Dan Rather Season 7 Episode 18 Ricky Skaggs

Ricky Skaggs is the guest of honor on season 7, episode 18 of The Big Interview with Dan Rather. Skaggs is a renowned country and bluegrass musician who has won 15 Grammy Awards and whose career has spanned several decades. In this episode, Skaggs sits down with Rather to discuss his musical influences, his early years in music, and the highlights of his career.

Skaggs began his career in music at a young age. Born into a musical family in Kentucky, he started playing the mandolin at the age of five. By the time he was in his teens, he was playing with some of the biggest names in bluegrass music, including Bill Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs. Rather and Skaggs discuss his early years in music, and the impact that his family and his home state of Kentucky had on his musical style.

Skaggs' musical career took off in the 1980s, when he began to incorporate country music into his style. He had a number of hit songs and albums, and became a household name in the world of country music. Rather and Skaggs discuss the transition from bluegrass to country, and how Skaggs was able to stay true to his roots while expanding his musical horizons.

Throughout his career, Skaggs has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Emmylou Harris, James Taylor, and Bruce Hornsby. Rather and Skaggs talk about some of these collaborations, and how they have influenced Skaggs' musical style.

Skaggs is not only known for his music, but also for his deep faith. He is a devout Christian, and his faith has played a major role in his life and his music. Rather and Skaggs discuss his faith, and how it has influenced his musical career.

In addition to his musical career, Skaggs is also a philanthropist. He has been involved in several charitable organizations throughout his career, including the MusiCares Foundation and the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Rather and Skaggs talk about Skaggs' philanthropic work, and how it has impacted his life.

Overall, season 7, episode 18 of The Big Interview with Dan Rather is a fascinating look at the life and career of Ricky Skaggs. Skaggs' insights into his musical style, his faith, and his philanthropic work make for a compelling interview, and fans of country and bluegrass music won't want to miss it.