Merle Travis- Rare Performances 1946-1981

Merle Travis (1917-1983) was the fountainhead of a blues/jazz tinged country guitar fingerstyle since dubbed 'Travis picking. ' Its impact has permeated not only country but folk and 'roots rock' guitar idioms. Travis's seminal role in American guitar styles overshadows the fact that he was also a formidable talent as a songwriter and performer. The many facets of his career are all present in these two videos spanning his west coast post-war prime to his last days as a rediscovered legend. This DVD captures thirty-five years of rare film and television performances. NTSC all region, 60 minutes. 'Merle Travis could write you a hit song and sing it; he could draw you a cartoon; he could play you a great guitar solo; or he could fix your watch. . . . I'd probably be looking at the rear end of a mule if it weren't for Merle Travis. . . . If you can say there is a certain style to my way of playing, then you have to recognize it as the influence of the guitar pickin' of Merle Travis. ' - Chet Atkins