Travis Barker’s Unexpected Musical Roots in Country Music

Despite being a prominent figure in the pop-punk scene as the drummer for Blink-182, Travis Barker’s musical upbringing is deeply rooted in the classic sounds of old-school country. His father, a devoted fan of legendary country artists, played a significant role in shaping Barker’s musical taste.

Memorable Encounters and Willie Nelson

In a recent episode of the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast with Bert Kreischer, Barker reminisced about a unique encounter in Canada. While visiting a vintage shop, he spotted an employee wearing a striking Willie Nelson T-shirt, which featured a distressed design of Nelson giving the middle finger.

Barker recalled, “He was coming to the show and he was a fan, and I’m like, This kid has the illest Willie Nelson shirt on.” Delighted by the shirt’s design, Barker managed to purchase it from the fan.

The Influence of Country Legends

Travis Barker’s father was a huge admirer of Willie Nelson, which led to the young drummer being raised on the music of Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Buck Owens. “Buck Owens, the best,” Barker declared, highlighting the impact these artists had on his musical foundation.

In fact, Barker’s connection to country music was further solidified when he performed at the All-Star Tribute to Buck Owens during the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2006, showcasing his appreciation for the genre.

Early Musical Journey

While Barker’s love for music was nurtured by his father, he began playing the drums at a young age. “I started playing on pots and pans,” he shared. “Then my dad and mom thought they should get me a drum kit. And they were right.”

With the support of his parents, Barker received drum lessons and adhered to a strict practice regimen. This dedication allowed him to develop a profound passion for the instrument, leading him to perform in punk bands during his teenage years.

Diverse Musical Influences

Barker’s country upbringing may explain his eclectic range of collaborations across various genres, from hip-hop to rock. “I listen to everything,” he noted in the podcast. “I grew up on rap music, like jazz and country from my pops, hardcore and punk rock. Anything that was involved in skateboarding as a kid kind of raised me.”

Conclusion

Travis Barker’s journey from a country-influenced childhood to becoming a pop-punk icon is a testament to the power of diverse musical influences. His ability to blend genres and collaborate with a wide array of artists showcases the richness of his musical heritage, proving that even the most unexpected backgrounds can lead to remarkable artistic achievements.

FAQs

What artists influenced Travis Barker’s musical upbringing?

Travis Barker was influenced by legendary country artists such as Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Buck Owens, thanks to his father’s musical tastes.

What instrument did Travis Barker start playing at a young age?

Barker began playing the drums at a young age, starting with pots and pans before receiving a proper drum kit from his parents.

Has Travis Barker collaborated with artists outside of punk music?

Yes, Barker has collaborated with a variety of artists across different genres, including hip-hop and rock, reflecting his diverse musical influences.

What notable performance did Travis Barker participate in related to country music?

Travis Barker performed at the All-Star Tribute to Buck Owens during the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2006.