OLD SCHOOL Acoustic Blues - “9-Pound Hammer“ Travis-Picking on a Martin Guitar

When I was arranging this song, I wanted to blend a few of my favorite versions together. I always loved the original Merle Travis version, which is intricate, articulate, and upbeat. But I also love the swanky, laid-back vibe of Mississippi John Hurt’s version. Aside from the tempo and swing, Merle used a thumb pick, and John Hurt used the flesh of his thumb. The slinky strings on John Hurt’s version also helps give more of a funky, drunk feel to it. So I tuned this Martin SC-13e down a half step, ditched the thumb pick, kept the up-tempo feel, and alternated between the Travis picking ragtime feel, and the boogie feel. 🎸If you want tabs for this arrangement, make sure you let me know in the comments! TUNING: Standard Tuning Down a Half Step GEAR: • @Martin Guitar SC-13E Acoustic Electric Guitar • @Fishman Music Pickup System • CEntrance R4R Mixerface Mobile Recorder 🎧 To support this channel & get exclusive content & perks: 🎸 PATREON: