This post is a contribution from Cindy Baucom. Cindy hosts the syndicated radio show Knee Deep In Bluegrass. She is also the IBMA 2005 Bluegrass Broadcaster of the Year.

Like so many others, I was very saddened by the passing of Louise Scruggs. Over the years, I have grown to truly appreciate the contributions she made to the advancement of the music. In November of last year, I had the opportunity to interview her husband, Earl Scruggs. He was quick to point out what Louise’s hard work and foresight had meant–not only to his career, but to Bluegrass overall. He told me when he and Lester Flatt left Bill Monroe, it was very important to Louise to get their music in high profile venues. He told me she worked really hard to get them in places where Bluegrass hadn’t been presented before. And the image of the music and musician was very important to her, as well. Louise Scruggs was an industry leader and will be greatly missed in the music world.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: Cindy sent along a brief audio clip from the Earl Scruggs interview she referenced above. It’s less than a minute in length, and you can play it by clicking on the audio player below.