The trio all armed with acoustic guitars took turns presenting music. Brady started with "Hillbillies" a descriptive tune of farm life. Gordon added guitar accents to the tale. Larry presented the catchy "That Rock Won't Roll". Gordon talked about some of his early influences before playing Roger Miller's "Dang Me". The circle of music continued through a number of rounds with each player sharing stories about the songs they were performing. Kennedy mentioned that he has been asked numerous times to write for movies but the film industry is fickle so not all his songs were used but "Blue Beyond" performed by Trisha Yearwood made it on the Fox and The Hound 2 soundtrack. Other highlights of the concert included Brady's "God Bless Texas", Larry's "I'll Still Be Loving You" and Gordon's "Change The World".

As good as the early show was the second set featuring Ricky Skaggs was even better. Ricky Skaggs is an American country and bluegrass singer, musician, producer, and composer. Ricky primarily plays mandolin; however, he also plays fiddle, guitar, mandocaster and banjo. His countless awards includes 14 Grammys, 11 IBMA Awards, nine ACM Awards, eight CMAs and two Doves. Recently Skaggs was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in Nashville and given a Lifetime Achievement Award from the AMA. The night before Ricky played at the CMAs which was seen by millions yet Skaggs seemed just as pleased to be performing at the more intimate Music City Pickers event.

Brady and Gordon opened the second show briefly describing their vision for the series. Each played a number of popular songs including "Summer Breeze (Seals & Croft) and "Change The World". Gordon warmly introduced Ricky mentioning Skaggs many accolades. Kennedy declared that he was a fan but also grateful to be able to call Skaggs a friend. Ricky in turn said Gordon was a blessing. Kennedy stayed on stage to accompany Ricky during Skaggs' inspiring set. Much of the music they performed was from Mosaic and the forthcoming Mosaic 2 albums.

"More awards means more glory for the Lord," said Ricky. Skaggs shared that "You Can't Shake Jesus" is one of his most requested songs. It was a powerful piece spiked with pretty picking. Ricky played guitar and his mandolin Pee Wee throughout the night. Skaggs described the instrument as an old, old man who has had a tough life. Pee Wee at one point had ended up in the garbage but thankfully someone had fished him out. Pee Wee has been fully restored and is ready for another 80 years. Skaggs shared another story before going into the comical bluegrassy "You Can't Hurt Ham".

Ricky talked about God, growing up in the mountains and his musical influences. "Return To Sender" was another moving moment from the Mosaic album. Ricky invited his wife of 35 years Sharon White to sing "When I'm Good and Gone". Their voices blended beautifully on this faith based song. Towards the end of his set Ricky talked about Elijah standing up bolding for the Lord at a time when Israel had drifted away from God. Ricky expressed his concern that America is now in a similar place and there may come a day when the Lord says enough is enough. "Fire From The Sky" was for the prophet while "Say a Prayer" was a somber warning to individuals and nations. The encore was a more cheerful guitar exchange between Ricky and Gordon.

Music City Pickers inaugural concert with Ricky Skaggs was a success. Brady and Gordon along with friends, colleagues and co-writers are excited to offer a place where songwriters, artists and instrumentalists can share their talent with the community of Franklin and beyond. Check out Music City Pickers for a full list of shows starting Thursday, December 1st, 2016.

Related Links: For more information on MUSIC CITY PICKERS LIVE and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- Music City Pickers | Ricky Skaggs