From American Songwriter · Clayton Edwards · · 50s
Merle Travis Dies 43 Years Ago
Country legend Merle Travis, who pioneered the Travis picking guitar style, died 43 years ago today.
In brief
Country legend Merle Travis, who pioneered the Travis picking guitar style, died 43 years ago today. Merle Travis, a country music guitarist and songwriter who helped define the genre, died of a heart attack in 1983 at age 65. Originally reported by American Songwriter.
Merle Travis Dies
Merle Travis died of a heart attack in his Tahlequah, Oklahoma home on October 20, 1983 at age 65.
Travis Picking Style
Travis developed a syncopated fingerpicking style that became a staple in country music guitar playing.
Songwriter for Stars
Travis wrote hits for Tennessee Ernie Ford and Ernest Tubb, including 'Sixteen Tons' and 'Divorce Me C.O.D.'
Recording Success
Travis released 12 singles between 1946 and 1948, with 11 songs reaching the top 10.
The key point
Merle Travis, a country music guitarist and songwriter who helped define the genre, died of a heart attack in 1983 at age 65.
