Vintage Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean - USA 1971

The 1971 Gretsch Tennessean is a charming embodiment of the classic Gretsch sound, known for its warm, articulate tone and distinctive styling. Originally introduced as the Chet Atkins Tennessean in the late 1950s, the model quickly became a staple for players seeking that unmistakable “Great Gretsch Sound.” With its thin, hollowbody design and iconic HiLo’Tron pickups, the Tennessean carved out a niche in genres like rockabilly, country, and British invasion rock. This particular 1971 example remains in excellent player-grade condition, retaining its tonal character and playability despite showing the early stages of the common Gretsch binding deterioration of the era. While some areas of the fingerboard binding are beginning to lift, the overall integrity remains intact, ensuring the guitar is structurally sound and ready to play.

Notably associated with musicians like George Harrison, who famously wielded a Tennessean during The Beatles’ legendary performances in the early 1960s, the model’s sonic character is deeply intertwined with jangly chord work and melodic lead lines. The HiLo’Tron pickups deliver a bright, clear sound with pronounced midrange and treble definition, making it ideal for everything from fingerpicked country riffs to rhythm guitar in a rock or pop setting. The hollowbody design contributes an airy resonance, while the thinline construction helps reduce feedback compared to fully hollow counterparts. The Bigsby vibrato adds a touch of expressive charm, giving players the ability to add subtle pitch shifts and shimmering vibrato effects.

In terms of playability, this 1971 Tennessean remains comfortable and inviting. The slim-profile neck, paired with a smooth rosewood fingerboard, makes navigating chords and lead lines a breeze. The HiLo’Tron pickups respond beautifully to dynamic playing, delivering clean, articulate tones when played softly and a satisfying growl when pushed through an amp. The binding issues—typical for Gretsch guitars of this vintage—are present but manageable, with the fingerboard binding lifting slightly in some areas but remaining secure overall. Whether you're looking for a stage-ready vintage workhorse or a historically significant instrument with character, this Tennessean delivers classic tone and timeless appeal.

Features:

Action at 1st fret: 0.25mm

Action at 12th fret: 1.75mm

Neck depth at 1st fret: 20.6mm

Nut Width: 43.03mm

12 fret width: 52.26mm

Weight: 3.24kg / 7.14lb

Brand/Model: Gretsch 6119 Tennessean

Year: 1971

Body: Thinline hollowbody, maple construction

Finish: Walnut stain with gloss finish

Neck: Maple, slim profile

Fingerboard: Rosewood with thumbprint inlays

Binding: Multi-ply binding

Pickups: Dual HiLo’Tron single-coils

Controls: Master volume, individual pickup volumes, tone switch, three-way pickup selector

Bridge: Floating rosewood bridge with adjustable saddles

Tailpiece: Bigsby B6 vibrato tailpiece

Hardware: Chrome-plated tuners and hardware

Scale Length: 24.6"

Case: Original hardshell case