What makes Walkin' the Strings by Merle Travis notable?

This album is significant for its instrumental focus, showcasing Travis's virtuosic guitar skills, which influenced generations of country musicians. It represents a key moment in the popularization of fingerstyle guitar in country music, contributing to Travis's lasting legacy as a pioneer of the genre. Released in 1960, Walkin' the Strings followed Merle Travis's evolution as a pivotal figure in country music, particularly recognized for his innovative guitar playing. At this point, he had already established himself through previous albums and was gaining recognition for his unique sound that blended folk with country influences.

How many songs are on Walkin' the Strings?

Walkin' the Strings has 22 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Walkin' the Strings

Merle Travis · 1960

34 min · 22 tracks · country music

A vibrant showcase of fingerstyle guitar mastery interwoven with traditional country melodies and playful rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Walkin’ the Strings — The title track exemplifies Travis's signature fingerpicking style, combining intricate melodies with rhythmic flair that sets the tone for the entire album.
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Cane Break Blues — This track showcases Travis's ability to evoke deep emotion through simple, yet expressive guitar work and heartfelt melody, highlighting his blues influences.
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Jordan Am a Hard Road to Travel — Featuring a blend of traditional gospel themes and upbeat instrumentation, this track captures the interplay between spiritual and secular sounds that defines much of Travis's work.
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Little David Play on Your Harp — This track stands out for its playful arrangement and catchy melody, illustrating Travis's talent for transforming familiar songs into engaging musical experiences.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Take My Hand, Precious Lord

The song shifts from a reflective tone to an urgent plea for guidance during hardship.

This transition enhances emotional intensity, allowing listeners to feel the weight of the request while emphasizing the importance of faith in times of struggle.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Walkin’ the Strings 1:41
2 Little David Play on Your Harp 2:19
3 Saturday Night Shuffle 2:07
4 Thumbing the Bass 0:53
5 Cane Break Blues 1:14
6 Darby’s Ram 2:29
7 Everly Rag 0:38
8 Rose Time 1:36
9 Old Aunt Dinah 1:14
10 My Old Kentucky Home 1:23
11 Pigmeat Song 1:16
12 Blue Smoke 2:00
13 Dry Bread 2:42
14 Louisville Clog 1:12
15 On a Bicycle Built for Two 1:31
16 Green Bay Polka 0:56
17 Jordan Am a Hard Road to Travel 2:31
18 Travis Trot 0:31
19 Cannon Ball Stomp 1:22
20 Fuller Blues 0:50
21 Blue Bell 1:43
22 Take My Hand, Precious Lord 1:54

What to play next

Listen next

Songs of the Coal Mines

1963

Go back to

Back Home

1957

Full Merle Travis discography Artists like Merle Travis

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata