Paul Yandell, Second to the Best

Unassuming late guitarist Paul Yandell described his career not as one of celebrity but as sideman, the musician that audiences hear while they’re focused on the star. From his humble beginnings as a poor Kentucky farm boy learning to play to taking the stage at the Grand Ole Opry, he ultimately gained the trust and confidence of two of America’s finest musicians, Jerry Reed and the incomparable Chet Atkins. Compiled from personal correspondence and interviews, Paul’s online posts, and family members, a lifetime in the music business is recounted, from breaking in with the Louvin Brothers in the 1950s to his 25-year association with “Mr. Guitar” Chet Atkins, to his last recording in 2006. Along the way, Paul provides a wealth of information and history about guitar modification, gear and gadgets, and the people and personalities of country music’s golden era in the second half of the 20th century.