Artist: Travis McCready of Bishop Gunn
Hometown: Natchez, MS
Latest Album: Natchez
Nickname: Trav
Which artist has influenced you the most … and how?
Sylvester Stallone. He wrote, directed and starred in Rocky, a movie about the underdog defying the odds. It was basically his real-life situation through a character. I’ve always felt inspired and close to that story.
What’s your favorite memory from being on stage?
My last one. Every opportunity I have to be on stage is a privilege that I am very grateful for.
What was the first moment that you knew you wanted to be a musician?
When I realized the impact that my favorite artist had on my emotions, I wanted to achieve that same gift and share with people that same feeling of understanding. You see when listeners get close to an artist it’s because that artist has shared with them their vulnerabilities. It’s a very therapeutic exchange.
What’s the toughest time you ever had writing a song?
When I was a structural fitter/welder I built duct work for power plants and all types of large metal structures. I would write songs in my head to pass time, sometimes at extreme heights and heat. Most of my songs come from my struggles.
If you had to write a mission statement for your career, what would it be?
To entertain while defying the odds against me, to give them something real.
Photo credit: Anthony Scarlati
