Lunch and Learn: Chet Atkins: Mr. Guitar

Chet Atkins was arguably the most influential American guitarist of the twentieth century and, through his work as a recording executive, is often credited as a founder of the Nashville Sound. In Chet Atkins: Mr. Guitar, Don Cusic illuminates the legend, detailing Atkins’s work as a guitarist, producer, music executive, and guitar designer, while also exploring his roles as mentor, friend, and husband. Available June 1, 2025, the book is a compelling biography of an American music icon and his enduring legacy.

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Don Cusic is one of the premier historians of country music and an internationally known scholar and writer. As an author, teacher, historian, songwriter, producer and executive, Cusic has been actively involved in the music business since 1973.

Cusic is a historian of country music and the Curb Professor of Music Industry History and a professor of music business at Belmont University. He served as a consultant on the Ken Burns documentary on country music and has appeared on numerous documentaries and TV shows. In 2022, Cusic was inducted into the Western Music Association Hall of Fame. He lives in Brentwood, Tennessee.

This Lunch and Learn event is in-person in the Museum’s Digital Learning Center at 12:00 p.m. No RSVPs are required to attend this free event. It will also be livestreamed on the Museum’s website at TNMuseum.org/Videos. If you have any questions, please email Public.Programs@tn.gov. Boxed lunches made by Apple Spice Nashville are available for purchase for $12.24 to enjoy during the event. The lunches will include a sandwich, chips, and a cookie. Lunch orders must be placed by noon on Tuesday, May 24, 2025. Please order your boxed lunch on the ticket registration page.