Publisher : Vestapol
Rare Performance 1946-1981 Volume 1
Running time: 60 minutes
A 36 pages Booklet

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 video captures thirty-five years of rare film and television performances. A 36 page booklet is included which presents an interview and biographical essay, as well as many rare photographs of Merle Travis.

No Vacancy
Nine Pound Hammer
Mus'rat
I'm a Natural Born Gamblin' Man
Too Much Sugar For a Dime
Spoonin' Man
Lost John
Dark as a Dungeon
Petticoat Fever
Sweet Temptation
John Henry
I'll See You In My Dreams
Midnight Special
Cannonball Rag
I Am a Pilgrim
Sixteen Tons
Smoke Smoke That Cigarette
Barbeque Rag