Whippin Post

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the soulful track "Whippin' Post" by the Pat Travers Band from their 2009 album Travelin' Blues for all the Zoo Freaks out there. This rendition of "Whippin' Post," originally penned by Gregg Allman and made famous by The Allman Brothers Band, carries a distinct edge in Pat Travers' hands. In a 2009 interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Travers shared that he chose to cover this song because of its raw emotional power and its ability to let him stretch out as a guitarist. He noted, "It's one of those tunes that just lets you go wild, you know? You can feel the pain and the freedom in every note." The Pat Travers Band's version leans heavier into blues-rock grit, with Travers' searing guitar riffs giving it a fresh, electrified vibe that resonates with his loyal fans, affectionately known as "Hammer Heads."

While specific anecdotes about the recording of "Whippin' Post" for Travelin' Blues are scarce, a post on the Pat Travers Band's official Facebook page from 2019 celebrated the album’s 10th anniversary, hinting at the intensity of the studio sessions. The post mentioned how the band "poured their hearts into every track," with Travers himself calling the cover a tribute to the blues giants who inspired him. Fans in the Pat Travers Band Fan Club group on Facebook have echoed this, often citing "Whippin' Post" as a live show highlight, where Travers' extended solos can last upwards of ten minutes, leaving audiences spellbound. The song’s inclusion on Travelin' Blues, a compilation of high-energy covers and originals, underscores Travers’ knack for blending reverence for classic blues with his own hard-rocking style.

Pat Travers, born Patrick Henry Travers on April 12, 1954, in Toronto, Canada, kicked off his musical journey at the tender age of 12 after witnessing Jimi Hendrix perform in Ottawa. This pivotal moment, as detailed on his official website, ignited a passion for the guitar that led him to form early bands like The Music Machine, Red Hot, and Merge, playing clubs across Quebec. By his late teens, Travers caught the eye of rock artist Ronnie Hawkins, who invited him to join his band, giving the young guitarist a taste of the big leagues. In his early twenties, Travers took a bold leap, moving to London and signing with Polydor Records. His self-titled debut album dropped in 1976, featuring longtime collaborator Peter "Mars" Cowling on bass, and marked the start of a prolific career that blended blues, hard rock, and funk.

Travers’ relentless touring and fiery performances earned him a dedicated following, with fans flocking to his shows across the U.S. and Europe. His Instagram often showcases vintage photos and tour updates, reflecting his enduring love for the road. In the 1990s, Travers signed with Blues Bureau International Records, releasing Blues Tracks in 1992, which paved the way for albums like Travelin' Blues. Despite never reclaiming the commercial peak of his late-1970s hits like "Boom Boom (Out Go the Lights)," Travers remains a road warrior, as noted in a 2024 Buffalo News article, performing with the same intensity whether in small clubs or large venues. His influence is acknowledged by guitarists like Paul Gilbert and Kirk Hammett, who cite him as a "guitar god."

For the latest news and tour dates, check out the Pat Travers Band’s official website. Stay connected with the band on Facebook, where they boast over 152,000 followers, and follow their Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses. On X, Travers shares occasional updates and interacts with fans. For deeper fan engagement, join the Pat Travers Band Fan Club on Facebook or visit fan-driven sites like Classic Rock Forums, where "Hammer Heads" discuss his discography and share concert memories. The Zoo Crew and Zoo Freaks can keep rocking to "Whippin' Post" knowing they’re part of a legacy that’s still burning bright.