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Chet Atkins died around 10 a.m CT Saturday
(June 30, 2001) at his home in Nashville, TN from complications of cancer. He was 77. Chet fought cancer for many years and had been inactive in recent
months.
All of us associated with Breathe Easy Music and the Magnolia
Music Group wish to express our deepest regrets in the unfortunate passing of
Chet Atkins, one of the truest musical legends to ever grace us with his
talents.
On a personal level, Dr. Jim Coleman will miss
his friend deeply. Jim's tribute CD to Chet entitled "The Guitar That Made
America Great" was released only a few days ago. It serves as a poignant
statement from Dr. Coleman to his dear friend
now gone!
In a Statement Released By Dr. Jim
Coleman on June 30, 2001:
Around noon today I got a call from a good friend who told me that Chet had passed away this morning at 10 AM. My deepest sympathy goes out to his wife, Leona, and to his family.
Chet was so special in my life and had such a tremendous influence on not only my guitar playing and taste in music, but, also on my general attitude and philosophy of life. He taught me the importance of humility and honesty in facing every challenge in life. The many times we spent together will be remembered as the happiest of my life.
Fingerstyle Guitar magazine had it right last
year when they called him the "Guitarist of the Millennium," but, more than just
a great guitarist, Chet was a great man. He gave so much to so many. I went by
his house last week on his 77th birthday and left him copies of my tribute
album. I am so glad I finished this and had the opportunity to play it for him
before he died. His comment to me was, "You made a few mistakes, but only I
would notice."
Thank you for everything, Chet, there will
never be another one like you.
Love,
Dr. Jim
