Sparky & Rhonda Rucker

James "Sparky" Rucker is a renowned 12-string guitarist, storyteller, and cultural ambassador whose musical journey spans more than 50 years. Growing up in Knoxville, Tennessee, Mr. Rucker was immersed in the rich traditions of gospel, blues, doo-wop, soul, and rock from a young age. His early musical influences include legendary blues mentors such as Rev. Pearly Brown, Buddy Moss, and Johnny Shines, whose guidance shaped his distinctive bottleneck guitar style. Mr. Rucker's performances are celebrated for their scholarly depth and rare musical talent, earning praise from critics like Sam Hinton and Robert Trussell, who noted his unique style and compelling storytelling.

A dedicated activist, Mr. Rucker has long been involved in the Civil Rights Movement, participating in workshops at the Highlander Center, alongside figures like Rosa Parks and Myles Horton. He served as vice president of the Black Student Union at the University of Tennessee and worked with organizations such as Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, lending his voice to freedom songs at rallies and marches. His commitment to justice and community is reflected in his work supporting Appalachian coal miners and his outreach to children through educational performances nationwide.

Mr. Rucker performs regularly with his wife, Rhonda Rucker, blending vocals, guitar, banjo, and spoons into their heartfelt music. They appeared on the Grammy-nominated album Singing Through the Hard Times and released 16 albums, with Treasures and Tears earning a W.C. Handy Award nomination. Mr. Rucker, an author and speaker, has contributed to numerous anthologies and appeared on National Public Radio’s Prairie Home Companion, the Kennedy Center, and international festivals. His performances of traditional songs like "John Henry" and "Jesse James" have been featured in National Geographic videos, cementing his legacy as a vital voice in American folk and blues traditions.

Rhonda Lynn Rucker has been a professional musician, author, and storyteller for more than 30 years. Performing with her husband as the duo Sparky & Rhonda Rucker, she has recorded 10 albums. Her songwriting, praised by critics like Dave Winship and Greg Artzner, features beautiful, soulful songs such as “Living River,” “Circle of Love,” and the environmentally-themed “One Earth.”

Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, Mrs. Rucker began piano lessons at age four with Fannie Woods Mansfield, whose ragtime and gospel influence shaped her barrelhouse piano style. She developed a deep appreciation for nature and social issues early on, inspired by folk festivals and performers like Jean Ritchie. Mrs. Rucker attended the University of Kentucky, completing medical school and practicing internal medicine in Tennessee before turning to music full-time to promote social and environmental causes. A multi-instrumentalist—playing harmonica, banjo, piano, guitar, and bones—Mrs. Rucker writes original songs addressing topics like climate change, rooted in folk and gospel. She has performed at major events such as Earth Day and national parks, and has co-taught environmental journalism, blending her passions for science, storytelling, and activism. Her work continues to inspire change through music and words.