Interview with Bobby Hicks, November 11, 2004

Interview Summary

Bobby Hicks, a prolific fiddle player in the bluegrass world, recalls his childhood and beginnings with the fiddle. Hicks lists some of the bands he played in prior to joining Bill Monroe's group. He describes Monroe's attitude and his unique playing style. Hicks recalls what it was like to play at the Grand Ole Opry with Bill Monroe. Hicks explains why he left Monroe's band when the popularity of bluegrass began to decline. Hicks discusses playing in Iowa and Montana before moving to Las Vegas to perform with Judy Lynn at casinos. After his stint performing with Judy Lynn, Hicks began working with Ricky Skaggs, winning several Grammy's with Skaggs. Throughout the interview, Hicks demonstrates several fiddle techniques. Hicks illustrates why he prefers playing a five-string fiddle and the process of special-ordering his current fiddle, which he has nicknamed "Golden Boy." Hicks concludes the interview by detailing his future plans with his current band, Hazel Creek.

Interview Keyword

Fiddle players Fiddles Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys (Artist) Bill Monroe (Artist) Grand Ole Opry (Radio program) Hazel Creek (Artist) Las Vegas (Nev.) Judy Lynn (Artist) Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder (Artist) Ricky Skaggs (Artist) Country music Bluegrass music Musical instruments Dale Potter (Artist) Tours Polka music Five-string fiddles Influences Live performances

Interview LC Subject

Nashville (Tenn.) Bluegrass musicians Musical ability Musicians Music--Instruction and study. North Carolina Childhood Casinos Popularity Iowa Montana Legacy Technique Musical instrument makers Awards

Interview Rights

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Interview Usage

Interviews may only be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries.