Hey truck drivers – we’re back with our popular long-running series at CDL Life called Truck Driver Songs. It’s the place where we focus on songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and on that represent the lifestyle of the North American Trucker in music and song. Today, we have a little ditty that’s a bit different than everything that’s come before.
Chet Atkins is one of the understood and honored masters of the electric guitar. He’s considered by musicians the world over as a man who truly makes music on his own terms, yet continues to inspire some of the greatest guitarists in the modern era of music. Everyone from Brian Setzer, Willie Nelson, Jerry Reed, Merle Travis, Johnny Cash, Les Paul, Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, and Mark Knopfler consider Chet as a primary influence on their musical style for guitar.
He’s been honored by the Country Music Association as the Instrumentalist of the Year nine times in 67, 68, 69, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85 and 88. He continues to be referenced as a primary influence by modern guitar masters for songwriting and technique to this day.
Among many honors, Atkins received 14 Grammy Awards as well as the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and nine Country Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year awards, was inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Atkins created the smoother country music style known as the Nashville sound, which expanded country’s appeal to adult pop music fans as well.
Chet was diagnosed with cancer in 1996. He died on June 30, 2001, at his home in Nashville, Tennessee. He will be remembered forever for his contributions to country guitar and popular music forever.
The unique thing about this Truck Driver Song? It’s purely instrumental. No lyrics, yet, it has a lyrical quality to it. Chet is able to tell a complex tale about the trials and victories of the trucker purely through notes, instead of vocals. It’s special, it’s heartfelt, and it’s amazing. We think you’ll love it.
For now, hear an emotional ode to the truckers everywhere on the road from an absolute master of country jazz guitar. Enjoy, truck drivers!
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