Fans often refer to her as the “first lady of country guitar”.Ĭhet’s early exposure to music and the influence of musicians like Maybelle Carter set him on the path to becoming one of the most talented and influential guitarists of all time. She was a member of The Carter Family, one of the most influential groups in country music history. Her innovative finger-style guitar playing inspired many country guitarists, including Chet Atkins, and helped to popularize the country music genre. Maybelle Carter: Maybelle Carter was an American country guitarist and also known as the “Mother Maybelle”. Her innovative finger-style guitar playing inspired Chet to develop his own unique style. However, it was Maybelle Carter, of the Carter Family, who would become Chet’s biggest inspiration. Jim had a collection of records by guitarists such as Merle Travis and Django Reinhardt, which had a big influence on Chet’s playing style. Received his first guitar, a Sears Roebuck acoustic, from his brother at the age of nine.Ītkins’ parents played the fiddle and sang, while his siblings played guitar and mandolin.Ītkins’ older half-brother, Jim Atkins, was also a musician and taught Chet some of the basics. Suffered financial hardships during the Great Depression, but the love of music helped to ease some of the struggles. Childhood Home:Ī small farmhouse on a farm near Luttrell, Tennessee. Despite having no formal training, Atkins immediately fell in love with the instrument and began practicing for hours on end. Atkins’ parents played the fiddle and sang, while his siblings played guitar and mandolin.Īt the age of nine, Atkins received his first guitar – a Sears Roebuck acoustic – as a gift from his brother. However, his family’s love of music helped to ease some of the financial hardships they faced. The youngest of three children, Atkins grew up in poverty during the Great Depression. Rural Roots and Musical FamilyĬhet Atkins was born in rural Luttrell, Tennessee, on June 20, 1924. Let’s delve deeper into the early life of this legendary musician. Additionally, he was inspired by the finger-picking guitar styles of many other legendary artists like Merle Travis, Jerry Reed, and Doc Watson. Chet’s rural roots and musical family had a profound impact on his journey to greatness. His early life was instrumental in shaping the musician and the person he went on to become. Raised in poverty, Chet had to overcome many hurdles to pursue his passion for music. But before he became the “Father of Country Guitar,” he had a humble beginning in rural Tennessee. Early Life of Chet AtkinsĬhet Atkins, a name synonymous with country guitar, had an illustrious career spanning over five decades. But who was Chet Atkins, and how did he rise to fame in the country music world? In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating life and legacy of this musical icon, from his rural roots and early steps towards guitar mastery to his illustrious career highlights, incredible influence on country music, and enduring legacy. Widely regarded as the “Father of Country Guitar,” Atkins’ unique finger-style technique and unparalleled music production skills have left an indelible mark on the genre. When it comes to the world of country music, few individuals have had the level of impact and influence that Chet Atkins has had.
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