This DVD captures outstanding performances from various shows such as Purina Show (1955), Norway (1963), Ozark Jubilee (1958), Norway Nashville Cavalcade (1973), Porter Wagoner Show (1973), and Pop Goes the Country (1975).

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His sad passing on June 30th 2001 leaves the world poorer and us 'believers' will never forget him.

Iain Thurston Lancashire England

17 of 20 found the following review helpful:

the original Atkins dietAug 09, 2005
By The Delite Rancher
"Chet Atkins - Rare Performances 1955-75" shows the young guitar player in action during his best years. The performances show him with electric and acoustic guitars in solo, quintet and orchestral situations. From 1955 to 1975, the DVD moves from black and white to color footage. While it is a dream to initially see Chet live, it soon becomes clear that he wasn't much of a live entertainer. While his gentle power is obvious, it doesn't translate so well to the visual medium. Atkins seldom looks at the audience, there is little interaction between him and his fellow musicians and his half-hearted singing falls short of what one might expect from such an innovator and studio gem. Unless the viewer is a guitar aficionado who hangs onto his every move, the video gets old quickly. For such finger picking fans, the DVD offers many quality close-ups to fully appreciate his mastery. Don't get me wrong, "Rare Performances" is precious because it is one of the few video documents of Chet Atkins, just keep your expectations reasonable.

1 of 1 found the following review helpful:

history in the makingMar 02, 2008
By H. R. Human "ronnie sci fi freak"
This was superb view of the way he showed his unbelievable skills in his early "Black & White" years of filming. He stands alone although he certainly stands together with the likes of Les Paul, Bert Weedon etc.

1 of 1 found the following review helpful:

Early Gretsch WorkMar 16, 2006
By GRR "Chet Fan"
Great stuff. I have been trying to figure out how he does what he does for over 40 years. This DVD is Chet lovers treasure, especially if you like his earlier Gretsch work.

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