Doyle Dykes

No less than Chet Atkins counted himself a fan of Doyle Dykes. In an interview with Vintage Guitar magazine, the legendary picker singled out Dykes as an artist he'd pay to see.

That won't be necessary for Dykes' next show. In a benefit concert for Chattanooga's Prison Prevention Ministries tonight, Aug. 29, Dykes will perform for free. A love offering will be taken to help PPM continue its work of preventing at-risk youth from going to prison and former inmates from returning.

Dykes, a Florida native now living in Cleveland, Tenn., has been cited as one of the best fingerstyle guitarists in the world and the "natural heir" to Atkins' throne. He draws regular praise for his distinct sound, borne of his ability to blend technical skill with musicality.

Atkins was an early inspiration for Dykes, but his style also shows influences of Duane Eddy, the Allman Brothers, The Beatles and U2. His appreciation for various styles of music is reflected in his signature compositions, which range from "Jazz in the Box" to "How Great Thou Art."

His early years as a guitarist took him around the world as he toured with The Stamps Quartet and later with Grand Ole Opry star Grandpa Jones. He has played numerous times at the Opry and shared stages with such luminaries as Atkins, Eddy, Les Paul, Peter Frampton, John Fogerty and Vince Gill.

In 2012, Dykes was honored with a Guild signature guitar, crafted to his exacting specifications.

"When I saw the guitar for the first time, I saw reflections of my life and relationships," Dykes told GuitarWorld.com. "The Duane Eddy vintage-style 'G' on the headstock, the Chet Atkins-style fret markers, the beautiful roses on the bridge that depict a heartfelt family story and the Guild name have all been a part of my life since I was a boy."