Chet Atkins

Chet Atkins was the best in the world. I heard him play in “Christmas with Chet Atkins” when I was 7 years old and I never heard anything so beautiful. I’m sure he’s in heaven playing for the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Ghost. The Lord gave him great talents. - Steven M. Eddy, Palm Coast, Florida

Chet, I don't know if you will ever understand the impact your music has had on me. I've made a point of listening to at least one of your songs every day since Christmas 1984. You have influenced and will continue to influence my keyboard playing for years. I know God doesn't appreciate our having idols, but I have to admit that if I were allowed to have just one that you would be it. Although I never got to meet you in person, I am thankful that I was exposed to your music and that your suffering with cancer is over. I also pray that God may grant me an opportunity to meet you and to play with you and Jerry when I get to heaven. Rest in peace, Chet. I love you and thank you.

I was 16 and completely bowled over by the Rock revolution that was sweeping the UK from the US. I think it was a cover of Trambone by Duane Eddy that alerted me to Chet. So then I read that he was a producer for RCA working and playing on so many records that Ioved. I those days my weekend pleasure was to brouse the Albums in the record stores where I came across Chet's Workshop album.
My selection impressed my future Father in Law and most likely confused my contemporaries. I purchased everI could find. I visited RCA studio B in Nashville a couple of years ago and wept a few silent tears.

Listening to East Tennessee Christmas this weekend and thinking of Chet. My granddaughter dancing to Jingle Bell Rock makes me smile. Thanks for all the great music, Chet. We miss you.

Nick in Mason Ohio

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. Godspeed.