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Among all the other goings-on at CAAS yesterday, two inter-related events of exceptional interest were a tribute to Paul Yandell (and a talk by him), and the official rollout of the Gretsch G6120CGP stereo guitar.
Paul, of course, was Chet's longtime sideman and close friend – and a superb player in his own right. Chet inspired respect from all and love from many, but he had an exceptionally steadfast, loyal, and genuine friend in Paul.
Paul was heavily involved several years ago in the development of the 6122-59 "Nashville Classic" (now known as the Chet Atkins 1959 Country Gentleman). Most of us all are well aware of that guitar as the closest possible reincarnation of Chet's beloved customized 1959 Gent.
Just for that (if not for his relationship with and contribution to Chet's music) we Gretsch guys owe him a debt of gratitude. Now he's been equally involved in the re-creation of an equally significant guitar, and we're even more indebted.
I thanked him for the Nashville Classic (as he still calls it), mentioned the GDP to him, and told him he's a hero in these parts – one of a handfull of people who are recognized by just their first names. Like Chet, Duane, Fred, Brian, Joe, and ... Paul.
I got a strong sense for the fierce loyalty and selfless commitment to Chet which make Mr. Yandell tick when he said something like "I don't know about all that, I'm no hero. I'm just trying to help Chet's estate and keep his legacy alive."
But despite personal humility, Paul is a long-time hero to the people of CAAS, and yesterday CAAS came together to honor his contributions. Paul sat in the center of the aisle at the back of a conference room while 100 folks or so heard a succession of fine pickers play Chet's and his own music back to him. After they'd played, performers exited down the aisle and personally thanked Paul for his years of music; Paul thanked them for playing.
I recorded a couple of these performances from the back of the room (and apologize that I didn't get the performers' names).
Tribute to Paul.
Another tribute to Paul.
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Then it was time for Paul to speak. I've broken his comments into several logical chunks, in just the order they came.
Paul says Chet don't 'low no whistlin' around here.
Stuff Chet hated.
At which point, Paul brought out the eagerly anticipated 6120CGP, and most in the room got their first-ever look at a legendary instrument.
. Then he took some questions from the audience.
When Chester played with Lester.
More on the CGP.
More Gretschtalk from Paul, and testimony about the 6122-59.
And when you hear the CGP, I think you'll put it in the same class as its predecessor.
Paul, we do owe 'ya, man.
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