Buck White, the patriarch and mandolin player for the influential bluegrass group The Whites, has passed away at the age of 94. His death, confirmed earlier today, marks the end of a remarkable life filled with music, family, and faith
Formed in 1972, The Whites were a family affair, with Buck, alongside his daughters Sharon and Cheryl, making their mark on the bluegrass world. Throughout their career, the trio charted multiple singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earned two Grammy Awards for their contributions to the genre. The group’s music continues to inspire fans across generations, and Buck’s legacy as a talented musician and devoted family man will never be forgotten.
A Heartfelt Farewell from His Family
The sad news of Buck’s passing was shared by his son-in-law, bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs, on Facebook. Skaggs, married to Sharon White since 1981, forwarded a message from Buck’s daughters Sharon, Cheryl, Rosie, and Melissa, which read:
“The Lord answered our prayers and took our daddy, Buck White, home peacefully this morning at 8:00 a.m. We are so thankful for his 94 years on this earth. He was a great dad who taught us by example to put Jesus first always. His great loves were the Lord, our mother, his family, and music. Most people will remember him not only for being a great musician and entertainer but also for being fun-loving and full of mischief. He lived a full life and finished well.”
The message reflects the deep love and admiration his family held for him, and how his legacy extends far beyond his music.
Buck White’s Enduring Musical Legacy
Buck White’s influence in the bluegrass and country music scenes cannot be overstated. Along with his daughters, Buck helped shape the sound of bluegrass in the 1980s. Their album Old Familiar Feeling produced several hits, including “Hangin’ Around” and “You Put the Blue in Me,” songs that are still beloved by fans today.
In the early 1980s, the family trio was inducted into the prestigious Grand Ole Opry, an honor that cemented their place in country music history. Before his passing, Buck White was the oldest living member of the Opry, a testament to his enduring contributions to the genre.
The Whites also gained widespread recognition for their appearance on the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack. Their rendition of the Carter Family classic Keep on the Sunny Side was featured in the film, contributing to the album’s Grammy-winning success. The album went on to win Album of the Year at the Grammys, the CMA Awards, and the International Bluegrass Music Awards.
A Life Well Lived
Buck White’s contributions to bluegrass music were honored in 2006 when The Whites received the Distinguished Achievement Award from the International Bluegrass Music Association. In addition to his musical achievements, he was known for his fun-loving nature, his dedication to his family, and his unwavering faith.
Despite his passing, Buck’s legacy lives on in the music he created and the lessons he passed on to his daughters and fans. His place in the history of country and bluegrass music remains firmly secured, ensuring that his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
James Anderson is a seasoned journalist and the primary author of many articles on usaunfiltered24.com. With a keen eye for current events and trends, James has built a reputation for delivering timely, insightful content on a wide range of topics, from breaking news to popular culture. His ability to simplify complex issues and present them in an engaging way has made him one of the go-to writers for readers seeking reliable information. With years of experience in the media industry, James is known for his thorough research and commitment to providing readers with accurate and up-to-date news, making him a trusted voice in the world of journalism.
