Tony Rice, known as one of the leading bluegrass music legends of the 1970s, died on Christmas Day at the age of 69.
The International Bluegrass Music Association confirmed the news in a statement to Fox News.
“With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to the most famous voices and musicians in Bluegrass history. David Anthony ‘Tony’ Rice was born at his home in Reedsville, NC.” “For those of us lucky enough to know and hear Mr. Rice, Putting their endless skills and influence into words is an impossible task. As a singer, songwriter and guitar player, there are very few who will never match his impact on Bluegrass. And acoustic music. “
The artist’s former label, Rounder Records, presents the music legend in more detail in a statement on Facebook.
“We are all deeply saddened by the news of Tony Rice’s sudden passing on Christmas Day, and we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and many of his fans. Let him live in peace,” the post reads.
Pro wrestler John Huber, better known as Brody Lee and Loop Harper, died in AT1
Rice was probably known to play with a band from the New South alongside Ricky Skags. After the news broke after Rise’s death, Scugs was in the cadre of musicians to share his thoughts on Rice’s career and influence.
“Tony Rice was the only influential acoustic guitar player in the last 10 years. Many people would not say that today’s Bluegrass guitar players cut their teeth on Tony Rice’s music. They would love to hear the next generation of players lick it.” That’s what he enjoyed the most as a player, “Skgs wrote on Facebook.
Bluegrass legend Tony Rice has died at the age of 69 on Christmas day.
(Stephen A. Ide / Michael Ochas Archives / Getty Images)
He continued: “Not only was Tony a brilliant guitarist, but he was also one of the most stylistic lead singers in Bluegrass music history. When I joined the New South group in 1974, I knew I could find a vocal soul mate. The voices mingled like brothers.In 1980, we recorded the album ‘Skugs and Rice’ for Sugar Hill, as a tribute to our duet heroes with guitar, mandolin and the ease of our voices. It still touches his heart. Who was Tony, the singer of hearts. “
‘Club Kid Killer’ Michelle Ellig Pound dead inside NYC home
According to Variety, Rice was a member of JD Krona’s New South in the early 1970’s before joining Scuggs. Later they will perform with numerous groups and also form some fronts like Tony Rice Unit. He is also known for his work with benjoists Bella Flack and Jerry Garcia.
The outlet reports that Rice’s inclusion in the 2013 International Bluegrass Hall of Fame fame was the last time he played the guitar in public due to a medical condition that made it difficult for him to play his favorite instrument. He did not sing live immediately after being diagnosed with muscular dysphonia in 1994.
It didn’t take long before artists from other countries went on social media to honor rice.
Click here to sign up for our Adventure Newsletter
“I am heartbroken to hear that Tony Rice has passed away. No one has had a profound effect on my world of music. His playing, singing, writing and arrangement have broken the bluegrass mold and will acknowledge the truth that music is written, from anywhere. , Can take anywhere Chris Thile.
“Playing with Tony was like playing on a magical carpet.” Fleck added. “You’re free to play its rhythm …”
Click here to get the Fox News app
“Tony Rice inspired many, including a kid like me from East Tennessee who sang me and played May and My Guitar. I was in awe. I will never forget seeing him sing at the IBMA Bluegrass Festival in Owensborough, Queens.” Imprinted in my mind forever! Rest in Peace Tony Rice, ” Kenny Chesney wrote.
