Posted by wilford on Monday, July 11, 2011
Kenny Baker passed away on July 8th, 2011 at Sumner Regional Medical Center in Gallatin, Tn. He was born in Jenkins, Kentucky, the son of a fiddler. After serving in the US Navy, he joined Don Gibson’s band and later, around 1957 was asked by Bill Monroe to be a member of the Bluegrass Boys. Kenny was the longest running member of Bill Monroe’s band serving more than 25 years. Kenny and Josh Graves played a lot together after Kenny left the Bluegrass Boys in 1984, until Josh passed away in 2006. My friend, Will, a professional (now retired, but still picking) Dobro player from the Elizabethton area was a real good close personal friend of Josh and Kenny.
4 comments on “The Passing of a True Bluegrass Legend”
richdissmore Says:
Monday, July 11, 2011 @8:52:56 AM
through the years i,ve heard them play and didn,t know who they were i do now they will be missed keep fiddlen
wilford Says:
Monday, July 11, 2011 @12:44:02 PM
Kenny was the best of the best. He sure will be missed. Have a great day, Rich. best wishes. Fred.
tsaimichael Says:
Friday, July 15, 2011 @11:10:11 PM
Mr. Baker lives on in the many recordings he made and the legions of fiddlers that he has inspired. I especially enjoy watching him play on YouTube. Lot's to learn by watching and listening. Unfortunately I never saw him play in person.
wilford Says:
Saturday, July 16, 2011 @4:47:37 AM
You're so right, Michael.
Kenny was "special" and Bill Monroe recognized that early on.
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