Bobby Hicks, the renowned Grammy Award-winning American bluegrass fiddler, has passed away at the age of 91. His death was announced on Friday, August 16, 2024, by legendary American composer Mark Connor in a heartfelt Facebook post. Hicks, a Hall of Famer, leaves behind a significant legacy in the American music industry, particularly within the bluegrass community.
Hicks was celebrated for his contributions to bluegrass music, particularly his innovative fiddling style, which included his mastery of double stop waltzes and fast bluegrass rides. His curiosity and openness to different musical influences made him a revered figure, often compared to other fiddle masters like Kenny Baker, Vassar Clements, and Benny Thomasson.
Born in Newton, North Carolina, Bobby Hicks began his musical journey at a young age, studying the violin before the age of nine. By eleven, he had already won the North Carolina State Championship with his rendition of "Black Mountain Rag." His career took off in the 1950s when he joined Jim Eanes’ band and later Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys, where he transitioned from playing bass to the fiddle. Hicks’ expertise in "Nashville swing," learned from session fiddler Dale Potter, became a hallmark of his performances.
Beyond his performances, Hicks was a dedicated teacher, sharing his knowledge with thousands of aspiring fiddlers and violinists at various string camps throughout his life. His teachings have left a lasting impact on the music community, ensuring that his legacy will live on through the many musicians he mentored.
April Verch, a fellow musician, shared her grief on Facebook, remembering Hicks not just for his musical talents but also for his generous spirit and sense of humor. "We lost a friend today," she wrote, recalling the good times they shared at fiddle camps, in the recording studio, and on stage. "Thank you, Bobby, we love you," she added, highlighting the deep personal connections Hicks made throughout his life.
Other friends and colleagues also paid tribute to Hicks on social media. Paul Wells called him "one of the best," while Wendy Caron Zohar expressed sorrow for the "hollow space he left which can’t be filled." The outpouring of love and respect from the community is a testament to the profound impact Bobby Hicks had on those who knew him.
Funeral arrangements and an official obituary will be announced by the family in due course, as the music world mourns the loss of one of its most cherished figures. Bobby Hicks’ contributions to bluegrass music and his generous spirit will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.