American rock and roll guitarist
Travis Lavoid Wammack, a pioneering American rock and roll guitarist whose innovative sound and electrifying performances left an indelible mark on music history, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Alabama at the age of 81. Born in Walnut, Mississippi, in November 1944, Wammack was a child prodigy who began his professional music career at an exceptionally young age, quickly establishing himself as a formidable talent.
Wammack's family relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, when he was three, a move that placed him at the heart of a burgeoning musical landscape. He picked up the guitar at age eight and was performing professionally in Memphis clubs by the age of eleven. His precocious talent led him to become the youngest person ever voted into the musicians' union, a testament to his early mastery and dedication.
His groundbreaking work included the release of his first record, "Rock and Roll Blues" coupled with "I'm Leaving Today," on Fernwood Records when he was just eleven or twelve. Wammack gained national attention in 1964 with his instrumental hit "Scratchy," a track recorded years earlier that showcased his "hot and speedy guitar chops" and is widely recognized for its early and influential use of fuzz tone and distortion.
Throughout the 1960s, Wammack became a highly sought-after session guitarist, contributing his distinctive sound to countless recordings at renowned studios such as Sonic Recording Service and Hi Records in Memphis, and the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. His guitar work can be heard on records that have sold over sixty million copies, backing diverse artists including Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and the Osmond Brothers.
As a solo artist, Wammack released his self-titled debut album, "Travis Wammack," in 1972, followed by "Not For Sale" in 1975. The latter album produced two additional chart hits: "Easy Evil" and "(Shu-Doo-Pa-Poo-Poop) Love Being Your Fool," further solidifying his reputation as a versatile performer and songwriter.
Beyond his solo career and session work, Wammack served as the esteemed band leader for rock and roll icon Little Richard from 1984 to 1995. This role saw him tour the world and perform on numerous nationally syndicated television programs, including a performance at President Bill Clinton's inauguration party.
Wammack's significant contributions to music were recognized with multiple accolades. He received the Professional Musician Award from the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1999, was inducted into The Southern Legends Entertainment & Performing Arts Hall of Fame in 2005, and was honored by the Rockabilly Hall of Fame as a "legend" in 2011.
Travis Wammack's legacy as an "instrumental genius" and a "precursor to guitar-hero shredding" will continue to inspire generations of musicians. His innovative spirit, technical prowess, and enduring passion for rock and roll cemented his place as a true pioneer of the electric guitar.
Those who wish to honor Travis's memory are invited to .
Remembering those we recently lost
Plant the first tree in their honor
Share your thoughts and memories
Travis will be sorely missed for his kind consideration and thoughtfulness to the average person. He was much loved in his community as well as abroad. That fella could and did handle snakes down at the lake, having no qualms about doing so. He loved his family and friends freely. He would each year entertain we attendants at the Academy of Lifelong Learning. RIP dear Travis.
Travis's incredible guitar riffs live on, a testament to his unique talent and the joy he brought us through his music. His energy will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire.
Travis will be sorely missed for his kind consideration and thoughtfulness to the average person. He was much loved in his community as well as abroad. That fella could and did handle snakes down at the lake, having no qualms about doing so. He loved his family and friends freely. He would each year entertain we attendants at the Academy of Lifelong Learning. RIP dear Travis.
Travis's incredible guitar riffs live on, a testament to his unique talent and the joy he brought us through his music. His energy will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire.
