Ricky Skaggs says ‘beloved’ band member is leaving after nearly 30 years

Ricky Skaggs is 71, but the country music icon is not exactly slowing down.

In fact, Skaggs is preparing to head back out on tour, although he shared with fans recently that things won’t be the same for him out on the road this time around.

That’s because Skaggs will hit the road without a longtime band member.

“Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder will be hitting the road next week in the Northeast, with stops in Maine, New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey!” he wrote. “You will be able to see new band members in Kentucky Thunder’s configuration, including Justus Ross as the lead guitarist and our newest member, Troy Engle, who is now playing in beloved former band member Dennis Paker’s place. Dennis is moving on to other opportunities where he feels led, and although he is missed, we wish him all the best!”

Central Pa. fans of the legendary singer will have a chance to see him in Lancaster on Aug. 29 at the American Music Theatre.

According to Parade, Parker has been a member of the Kentucky Thunder band since 1997. The site said Parker plays rhythm guitar, mandolin and fiddle and also provides baritone vocals.

Parker has previously praised Skaggs.

“He only gets better,” Parker said in 2019. “Since the time I have been with him, he’s grown. Ricky is one of those guys who is multifaceted. He’s not only a great instrumentalist; he’s also an unbelievable arranger and he’s a great band leader.

“He’s got a cool presence about him because he knows what he wants and he knows what he likes,” he added. “He listens for everything and expects it to be there, but he’s not in any way not nice to you. He’s the total package and there ain’t many of them around like that.”