Chet Atkins
Chet Atkins (1924 – 2001) was born in Tennessee and picked up his first guitar aged around 9. Atkins was self-taught and his playing style was inspired by the likes of Merle Travis, Django Reinhardt and Les Paul. Atkins difficult to replicate style, uses the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand and was influenced both by country and Jazz. He once said that he did not like being called a "country guitarist", insisting that he was a guitarist, period. Atkins own records were a mixture of pop and jazz standards.
Atkins performed with many recording artists throughout his career and worked extensively as a session player/producer and at one stage managed RCA's Nashville studio and Country music division. While working for RCA's country division. Atkins brought a wide range of artists to public attention including the likes of Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton.
Atkins popularity took some time to establish but he was to establish a significant following. Atkins became a design consultant for Gretsch, who manufactured a Chet Atkins line of electric guitars from 1955n-1980. (After falling out with Gretsch – Gibson Guitars worked with Atkins to produce a new model).
Atkins was admired by many Guitarists and is often cited as an influence. Mark Knopfler was one of those and he recorded several albums with Atkins.
Throughout his career he used many guitars including the following:
• Grestch Country Gentlemen
• Gibson Country Gent
• D’Angelico
• Gibson Nylon Strung Acoustic
• Gibson Super 4000