Atkins, Chet (1924-2001), was one of the most influential individuals in the development of modern country music in the United States. Atkins helped shape country music as a guitarist , record producer, and recording company executive. Atkins is credited with being a major force behind the creation of the Nashville sound. The Nashville sound brought a smooth, pop-oriented style to country music. It broadened the audience for country music internationally in the late 1950’s and 1960’s.
Chester Burton Atkins was born on June 20, 1924, near Luttrell, Tennessee. As a young guitarist, he greatly admired the playing of Merle Travis, whom he heard on the radio. Travis played rhythm on the lower strings with his thumb, while playing melody on the higher strings with his index finger. Atkins developed the style further, often using two or even three fingers instead of one. Atkins toured with country bands and played on various radio shows during the 1940’s. He first performed on the “ Grand Ole Opry ” radio program in Nashville in 1946. Atkins settled permanently in Nashville in 1950.
Atkins made his first solo recording in 1946 and recorded over 100 albums. He served as vice president of Nashville operations for RCA Victor Records from 1968 to 1982. Atkins was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1973. He died on June 30, 2001. In 2002, Atkins was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame .
