Paul Yandell, Second to the Best: A Sideman's Chronicle



From Schiffer Publishing


This long awaited biography by Norm Van Maastricht is now available from Schiffer Publishing. I was honored to consult with Norm on this book about my mentor and friend.


"This is the story of Paul Yandell, a Kentucky-born guitarist who was the sideman, the accompanying guitarist, to two of the finest guitarists this country ever produced. He called it "playing second" and by that definition he was "second to the best." -Norm Van Maastricht

"Unassuming late guitarist Paul Yandell described his career not as one of celebrity but as sideman, the musician that audiences hear while they’re focused on the star. From his humble beginnings as a poor Kentucky farm boy learning to play to taking the stage at the Grand Ole Opry, he ultimately gained the trust and confidence of two of America’s finest musicians, Jerry Reed and the incomparable Chet Atkins.

Compiled from personal correspondence and interviews, Paul’s online posts, and family members, a lifetime in the music business is recounted, from breaking in with the Louvin Brothers in the 1950s to his 25-year association with “Mr. Guitar” Chet Atkins, to his last recording in 2006. Along the way, Paul provides a wealth of information and history about guitar modification, gear and gadgets, and the people and personalities of country music’s golden era in the second half of the 20th century."  -Schiffer Publishing

304 pages, with 60 B/W and color photos. Foreword by Steve Wariner and Pat Kirtley.




Paul Yandell, Second to the Best: A Sideman's Chronicle book:

Order from Schiffer Publishing





Note: You'll find many of Paul Yandell's arrangements in The Paul Yandell Collection and the AGW archive.

Visit Paul Yandell's website.



 Home        Bio        News        Discography        Instruction        Endorsements        Media        Links        Contact