Chet Atkins was arguably the most influential American guitarist of the twentieth century, and, through his work as a recording executive, is often credited as a founder of the Nashville Sound. In Chet Atkins: Mr. Guitar, noted music historian Don Cusic illuminates the legend, detailing Atkins's work as a guitarist, producer, music executive, and guitar designer, while also exploring his roles as mentor, friend, and husband.
Born in 1924 in Luttrell, Tennessee, Chester (Chet) Burton Atkins taught himself to play several instruments. A lifelong musician, he started his career playing alongside many other legendary entertainers, such as Red Foley, the Carter Family, Hank Snow, and Eddy Arnold. In the 1950s, as an RCA Victor manager, producer, and musician, Atkins was one of the early architects of the Nashville Sound, which led to the first crossover country-pop hits. He was also there at the beginning of rock and roll and played on the early recordings of Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers. When the Beatles came to the United States in February 1964, the lead guitarist, George Harrison, was seen on TV playing a Gretsch guitar designed by Chet Atkins.
By the end of his life in 2001, Atkins had recorded over one hundred solo albums, won fourteen Grammys, including a Grammy for "Lifetime Achievement," nine Country Music Association "Instrumentalist" awards, and was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. His innovative playing style has inspired musicians from Mark Knopfler, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney to Earl Klugh, Tommy Emmanuel, Doc Watson, Lenny Breau, Jerry Reed and many others.
