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Nerdy aside: despite this approach being named after him, Merle Travis didn't play this way. His thumb was far more "boom chuck" a la Mother Maybelle Carter than the more precise alternating thumb bass that people often call Travis Picking, but which more closely resembles the playing of Chet Atkins and Mississippi John Hurt. He also only used his index finger for upstrokes, his other three fingers were planted on the top.
I've been playing Chet, Merle, Jerry style since I was 16 which is longer ago than I care to admit It's always been a niche style in this country so It's good to see quite a few members here expressing interest.
I prefer the American name 'Kentucky Thumb' because Merle Travis didn't invent the style but when you say Travis Picking everyone knows what you mean.
It'll be interesting to see your Part 2 video Dean.
I’m so glad you liked it and I feel honoured you will point people towards this!
thanks so much for the background behind the style. I did hear that he only used his index finger which is interesting. It’s great to see and hear how others have developed this style too.
For those like @merlin who are interest in Travis-style playing in Rockabilly perhaps show the importance of sixth and ninth extended chords in getting the authentic sound.
Following on from your A, D and E picking examples in the first video perhaps introduce the D7 chord form with F# in the bass which is very commonly used in Travis style. Perhaps also show the option of thumb-over fretting of the sixth (and fifth) strings that Merle did all the time.
I can sense a Dean part 3 video in the making