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Description

Step into the world of classic rock and roll with the Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that combines timeless design with modern playability. Known for its distinctive, resonant sound, the Tennessean delivers a rich tonal palette, ideal for country, rock, and jazz enthusiasts alike. Its Filter'Tron pickups offer a signature warm, articulate tone that has defined the Gretsch sound for decades, making it a go-to choice for musicians seeking character and versatility.

Crafted with a laminated maple body, the Tennessean ensures durability without compromising on the light, airy sound that players love. The neck is made from solid maple, offering a comfortable grip and smooth playing experience. The rosewood fingerboard complements the overall design, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional excellence. With its vintage-style hardware, this guitar is not just an instrument but a piece of musical heritage.

Whether you're strumming in the studio or performing live, the Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean stands out with its blend of classic looks and modern performance capabilities. It's a guitar that doesn't just play music but tells a story, making it an essential for both collectors and active musicians.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollowbody design with laminated maple construction
  • Filter'Tron pickups for a warm, articulate tone
  • Solid maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Vintage-style hardware for classic appeal
  • Versatile sound suited for country, rock, and jazz genres
frettedamericana

frettedamericana

1961 Gretsch Tennessean 6119 Chet Atkins 00603

Video thumbnail for 1961 Gretsch Tennessean 6119 Chet Atkins 00603 by frettedamericana

1961 Gretsch Tennessean 6119 Chet Atkins 00603

frettedamericana

frettedamericana

Video thumbnail for Gretsch | 6119 | Chet Atkins Tennessean | ca. 1963 at The Fellowship of Acoustics by The Fellowship of Acoustics

Gretsch | 6119 | Chet Atkins Tennessean | ca. 1963 at The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

The Fellowship of Acoustics

Video thumbnail for 1960 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean 6119  | The Music Emporium by The Music Emporium

1960 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean 6119 | The Music Emporium

The Music Emporium

The Music Emporium

Video thumbnail for 1966 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1966 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1964 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1964 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean | GuitarPoint Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1959 Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for The Guitar Log- 1963 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean by The Guitar Log

The Guitar Log- 1963 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

The Guitar Log

The Guitar Log

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean.

Mods and upgrades

  • It's noted that a 1966 Tennessean should have Hilo'tron pickups, but the presence of DeArmond Dynasonics suggests post-factory modifications.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Check for binding rot and neck separation, common issues in older Gretsch models, which might require extensive repairs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The neck pickup on this Tennessean is installed backwards, indicating non-standard setup or modifications.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An all-original 1966 Tennessean sold for $2000, but condition details such as binding quality can significantly affect value.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gretsch 6119 Tennessean | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton has expressed appreciation for the design and concept of the Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean but mentioned that it doesn't align with his preferred sound. Despite this, a 1958 Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean was featured in a Christie's auction, indicating its connection to him.

See how Don Felder uses Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

Don Felder

Guitarist

Eagles

...
Verified via Felderfans

Don was asked about the Gretsch he used on the "Hell Freezes Over" DVD. He said "It was a 1959 orange Gretsch “Chet Atkins” that I had refinished black. I loved the sound but hated the color." (Quote from Felderfans Guitar Q & A with Don).
In another interview he stated "I used an EBow and my old black Gretsch Tennessean through an old Vox AC30 that I just love. That Gretsch used to be orange, but I had it repainted black in the middle or late ’70s." (Quote from Premier Guitar Interview: Don Felder - Airborne Again).

See how Chris Cheney uses Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

Chris Cheney

Guitarist

The Living End

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of Cheney with his rig, he can be seen holding the rare 2-pickup version of Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean.

See how Artur Menezes uses Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

Artur Menezes

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Pedais e Efeitos

In an article on Pedais e Efeitos, Artur Menezes is noted for using the Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean electric guitar.

See how Sol Philcox-Littlefield uses Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean

Sol Philcox-Littlefield

Guitarist

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In a Rig Rundown with Premier Guitar, Sol Philcox-Littlefield's studio setup is confirmed to include a Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, as detailed by John Bohlinger.

Album Usage

The Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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