Biography

Guitarist. Regular performer on the WLS National Barn Dance during the mid-1930s. Later formed a trio with Les Paul. Half-brother of guitarist Chet Atkins.

Interview Summary

1975 March
(1 hour)
Guitarist Jim Atkins talks about his experiences as a musician. Discussion includes his early education; early musical influences; his start on WLS and the National Barn Dance; the start of the Les Paul trio; his experiences as a musician during the 1930s and early 1940s; the impact of Les Paul; recording with Chet Atkins in the late 1950s; and advice for the starting guitarist.