The Early Years 1946–1957 is a five-disc compilation recording by American guitarist Chet Atkins, released in 2007.

History The 158 tracks on this five-disc compilation cover Atkins' career from his very first single ("Guitar Blues") released on Bullet Records to 1957 and Finger Style Guitar. The selections include quite a few of Atkins' vocal performances, from the very earliest 78's he recorded. The releases are placed in chronological order, so following Atkins' career steps is both educational and enlightening — especially to those seeking to hear his development as a guitarist.

Discs four and five represent Atkins as one of Nashville's leading studio musicians as well as his own solo albums. The liner notes are extensive and include an essay by Drew Kent.

Reception

Allmusic stated in their review: "The result is an entertaining and compelling look at the formative years of a crucial figure in the growth of country music, and guitar fans will get a fine buzz from the first-class picking that graces nearly every cut."

Personnel Chet Atkins – guitar, vocals Rosalie Allen – vocals James Atkins – guitar Billie Rose Atkins – vocals George Barnes – guitar Beasley Singers – vocals Joe Biviano – accordion Harold Bradley – guitar Jethro Burns – mandolin, vocals Jerry Byrd – lap steel guitar Fran Carroll – bass Anita Carter – bass Helen Carter – vocals Al Chernet – guitar Donna Colleen – vocals Farris Coursey – drums Johnny Degeorge – drums Danny Dill – vocals Ray Edenton – guitar Austin Footrell – vocals Malcolm Gold – organ, piano "Papa" John Gordie – celeste, piano Buddy Harman – drums Henry "Homer" Haynes – guitar, vocals Marvin Hughes – organ, piano, celeste Charles Hurta – fiddle Louis Innis – guitar, vocals Bud Isaacs – pedal steel guitar Aaron Kerr – organ Anita Kerr – vocals, choral arrangements Red Kirk – vocals Millie Kirkham – vocals Angus P Klein – accordion Phil Kraus – drums Buck Lambert – fiddle Randy Lanham – guitar Grady Martin – guitar Elbert R. "Dutch" McMillan – clarinet Ernie Newton – bass Dale Potter – fiddle Jack Shook – guitar Harold Siegel – bass Hank Snow – guitar, vocals Brock Speer – vocals "Holly" Swanson – bass

References