Travis Haddix

Blues guitarist Travis Haddix entered the world on November 26, 1938, as a native of Walnut, MS. Early exposure to B.B. King's broadcasts on WDIA out of Memphis shaped his initial musical direction. Since settling in Cleveland, OH, in 1959, he has honed his skills into those of a distinctive modern bluesman and songwriter marked by an original, soulful approach. Throughout the '70s he sharpened his technique before boisterous crowds at juke joints and blues festivals, yet his serious recording efforts began only after signing with the Ichiban label in 1988. The stylish, poppy releases Wrong Side Out (1988), Winners Never Quit (1991), and What I Know Right Now (1992) appeared while he maintained his position as a postal worker in Ohio. Growing popularity soon led to multiple annual trips to Europe and a string of blues awards across both continents. Recording resumed in 1994 with Big Ole Goodun', coinciding with expanding ventures that included his own publishing company and the launch of Wann-Sonn Records. In 2002 he added authorship to his pursuits with the release of Caught in the Middle, a volume of musical memoirs. Performances often conclude with his signature statement of outlook: "I am the best that I can be, and since no one else can be me, there's none better."