Steve Wariner Releases Tribute to Chet Atkins

Country artist Steve Wariner is set to release his tribute to the late Chet Atkins, his former mentor, producer and friend. Wariner's tribute is titled, Steve Wariner, c.g.p., My Tribute to Chet Atkins, will include 11 songs that were written or recorded by Atkins.  

Within the title, the "c.g.p." stands for "certified guitar player," which is a title Atkins only gave four people, John Knowles, Jerry Reed, Tommy Emanuel and Steve Wariner. 

Wariner said, "This is simply my way of honoring and paying homage to the genius and talent of the man who, in my opinion, is the greatest and most influential guitarist on the planet."

Atkins produced Wariner's first album and Wariner played guitar in Atkins' band until Atkins kicked him out, telling him he needed to pursue his own solo career. 

The album will be released June 23, a date that is set in between Atkins' birthday, June 20, and the anniversary of his death, June 30.