Blues Traveler Band Info

Introduction to Blues Traveler

Blues Traveler is a rock band from Princeton, New Jersey, formed in 1987. The band’s music style is a unique blend of blues, folk, rock, and psychedelic elements. Over the years, Blues Traveler has undergone several lineup changes, but the core members have always been John Popper (lead vocals, harmonica), Chan Kinchla (guitar), Bobby Sheehan (bass), and Chris Barron was not a founding member, however Brendan Hill (drums) and John Popper and Chan Kinchla and Bobby Sheehan were the founding members.

Band History

The band’s early years were marked by extensive touring and the release of their debut album, Blues Traveler, in 1990. However, it was their second album, Travelers and Thieves, released in 1991, that started to gain them a following. The band’s breakthrough came with the release of their third album, Save His Soul, in 1993. The album featured the hit single “Run-Around,” which reached the top of the Billboard charts and earned the band a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1996.

Music Style and Influences

Blues Traveler’s music is characterized by John Popper’s soulful and energetic vocals, as well as his harmonica playing. The band’s sound is also marked by Chan Kinchla’s intricate guitar work and Brendan Hill’s dynamic drumming. Blues Traveler’s music is influenced by a wide range of genres, including blues, rock, folk, and psychedelic music. The band has cited artists such as Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead, and John Lee Hooker as influences.

Discography

Blues Traveler has released 14 studio albums to date, including:

• Blues Traveler (1990)
• Travelers and Thieves (1991)
• Save His Soul (1993)
• Four (1994)
• Live from the Fall (1996)
• Straight On till Morning (1997)
• Decisions of the Sky (2000)
• Bridge (2001)
• Truth Be Told (2003)
• Bastardos! (2005)
• Cover Yourself (2007)
• North Hollywood Shootout (2008)
• Suzie Cracks the Whip (2012)
• Blow Up the Moon (2015)
• Hurry Up & Hang Around (2018)

Touring and Live Performances

Blues Traveler is known for their high-energy live performances, which often feature extended jam sessions and improvisational playing. The band has toured extensively throughout their career, sharing the stage with notable acts such as Phish, Widespread Panic, and Dave Matthews Band. Blues Traveler has also performed at numerous music festivals, including Woodstock, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo.

👏 Note: Blues Traveler's live performances are often marked by John Popper's energetic stage presence and audience interaction.

Band Members and Lineup Changes

Over the years, Blues Traveler has undergone several lineup changes. The band’s original bassist, Bobby Sheehan, passed away in 1999. He was replaced by Tad Kinchla, who is Chan Kinchla’s brother. In 2008, the band added Ben Wilson on keyboards, and in 2012, they added Paulie Kuzbiski on guitar. The current lineup of Blues Traveler includes:

• John Popper - lead vocals, harmonica
• Chan Kinchla - guitar
• Tad Kinchla - bass
• Brendan Hill - drums
• Ben Wilson - keyboards
• Paulie Kuzbiski - guitar

Band Member	Instrument	Years Active
John Popper	lead vocals, harmonica	1987-present
Chan Kinchla	guitar	1987-present
Tad Kinchla	bass	1999-present
Brendan Hill	drums	1987-present
Ben Wilson	keyboards	2008-present
Paulie Kuzbiski	guitar	2012-present

In summary, Blues Traveler is a unique and talented band with a rich history and a distinctive sound. With their blend of blues, rock, folk, and psychedelic elements, they have built a loyal fan base and have become a staple of the jam band scene. Their high-energy live performances and improvisational playing style have made them a favorite among music fans, and their discography is a testament to their creativity and dedication to their craft. As the band continues to tour and release new music, they remain a vital and exciting part of the music world.