Was Chet Atkins the Greatest Guitar Player of All Time?

The "Greatest Guitar Player" conversation is had by many. Magazines and individuals will list what they believe are the "top" 100 or so guitarists. Names like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Guthrie Govan, Andres Segovia, Tommy Emmanuel, Dimebag Darrel, Steve Howe, Duane Eddy, Robert Fripp, Joe Walsh, Dick Dale, John Frusciante, Jimmy Page, Jerry Reed, Les Paul, Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, David Gilmour, Eddie Van Halen, Jeff Beck, Duane Allman, Carlos Santana, Joe Pass, George Benson, Brian May, Tony Iommi, Buddy Guy, Frank Zappa, Randy Rhoades, John Lee Hooker, Ritchie Blackmore, Jerry Garcia, Mark Knopfler, Johnny Winter, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Mclaughlin, Joe Perry, Slash, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, James Hetfield and Mr. Guitar himself, Chet Atkins, are mentioned. This list is of course not my own but features a lot of the players mentioned in the 100 Greatest Guitarists lists by Rolling Stone.

There are a few factors that contribute to the "Greatest Guitarist" title.

1. Technical Ability
2. Influence/Notoriety
3. Diversity of Styles
4. Listenability/Tone/Feel

Chet Atkins had all 4 of these in spades. That's why so many guitar players listed him as an influence. Lots of country guitar players like Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, Steve Wariner and Clint Black have given nods to him, but a huge amount of jazz, classical, blues and world music players are fans as well.

This video talks about the various reasons Chet Atkins is so respected among guitar players, pianists, horn players and just music listeners/fans in general.

Listen as I pick a few licks and talk about my favorite guitar player - please comment what you think, or who you think may be the greatest guitarist ever!