My introduction to the great Chet Atkins came via his 52nd album. Stay Tuned, released in 1985, was the guitarist’s first effort for Columbia Records after decades with RCA Victor.
What immediately attracted me to the album was producer David Hungate, the legendary sessions ace who quit his gig with Toto just after completion of 1982’s multi-Grammy winning Toto IV. The bassist had relocated from L.A. to Nashville before the fabled album was recorded, and resumed work from his new home base.
On Stay Tuned, Hungate was able to leverage a resume that included the creme de la creme of the pop, rock and country worlds, successfully pairing Atkins with guitarists who grew up listening to his music.
“Please Stay Tuned” Might be the most unusual combination, however. Toto’s Steve Lukather handles the co-lead guitar lines and trades solos with Chet Atkins. Atkins’ semi-hollow body Gibson Country Gentleman guitar has a much cleaner tone than Lukather’s Valley Arts electric guitar. Add into the mix Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro, paired with David Hungate’s bass and sparks fly.
The song, written by Atkins and guitarist Paul Yandell has plenty of space for both guitarists to breathe. Additionally, David Hungate’s arrangement with light keyboard touches from Randy Goodrum and percussion by Terry McMillian ties the song together.
Hungate would go on to produce four of Atkins’ albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Meanwhile, this song started my Chet Atkins journey, which would continue until his death in 2001. Fortunately, there are more than 50 albums in his catalog to pick from.
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