Mastering Travis Picking: The Essential Fingerstyle Guitar Technique

Named after Merle Travis, this fingerstyle guitar technique became popular in the mid-20th century. It's characterized by a steady, alternating bass pattern played with the thumb, complementing the melody.

Travis often used a thumbpick to achieve a clear, articulate bass line. The thumbpick helps in maintaining volume consistency across the bass strings, which is pivotal for the Travis picking sound.

Travis picking requires finger independence, allowing for syncopation between the bass and melody. This complexity can make it sound like two guitars are being played simultaneously.

While the thumb maintains the bass, the index and middle fingers play the melody on the treble strings. This interplay creates a rich and full-bodied sound, unique to this style.

Merle Travis's 'Sixteen Tons' and 'Nine Pound Hammer' are quintessential examples. They showcase his picking style's ability to convey rhythm and melody, influencing many guitarists.

Many artists have adapted the Travis picking style, creating variations. For example, Chet Atkins developed the 'Atkins style,' which involves more complex patterns and a smoother tone.

Start slow, focusing on thumb independence. Gradually incorporate fingers for the melody. Use a metronome for timing. Listening to Travis's works can provide a strong aural foundation.