Silver Travis

Like the mythical phoenix, Silver Travis rose from the ashes of the past a few years ago, and they have been burning brightly ever since. These southern boys have a firm grip on the reality of the music business, but they refuse to give up on that old rock and roll dream. For Silver Travis, it’s all about the music. The music they all love.

Originally formed in Spartanburg, South Carolina in 1981, the group spent several years playing throughout the South, honing their skills in venues like Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium and the world famous Bowery in Myrtle Beach (home of the legendary Alabama.)

During the eighties, the band shared the stage with bands likes of George Hatcher Band and 38 Special, often jamming with friends like Artimus Pyle (Lynyrd Skynyrd), members of The Marshall Tucker Band and other friends.

Silver Travis broke up in the mid 80's, but in 2005 reunited to record their first album "One Monkey Don't Spoil the Show." With the success of the album, the band received international exposure and CD sales. The debut CD received favorable reviews in Bands Of Dixie magazine published in France, as well as in GRITZ music magazie. Songs from the CD have received airplay from internet based radio stations, local broadcast stations as well as appearances on the SIRIUS satellite radio network.

Since their reformation Silver Travis has shared the stage with the great Bonnie Bramlett (as her backing band), The Southern Rock Allstars, Tommy Crain of the Charlie Daniels Band, Donnie Winters of the Winters Brothers Band, Mark Burrell of the Toy Caldwell Band, and Jerry Eubanks and Pat Ellwood of the Marshall Tucker band. The band members have played on stage alongside original members of the Lynyrd Skynyrd, Marshall Tucker, Molly Hatchet, the Charlie Daniels Band and others.

In 2009 the band released their second album 'Take The High Road.' This time they brought in songwriter John Gillie on guitar and enlisted the assistance of Tim Lawter and Rusty Milner (both formerly of the Marshall Tucker Band) recording at Studio 151. Guest musicians on this album include Mike Blackwell, Steve Keeter, Jerry Eubanks and Paul Riddle of the Marshall Tucker Band , among others.

Silver Travis boasts a rich catalog of original tunes, with choice cover tunes peppered throughout their show. Not unlike fellow Southerner Warren Haynes, they enjoy surprising the audience with sometimes obscure songs and surprises.

Silver Travis is a little bit country and a whole lot Southern Rock, with some good ol’ blues tossed in for good measure. It’s a mix that has a firm foundation in its Southern roots. A sound you will want to enjoy time and time again. Like a fishing trip to the local pond, a glass of sweet iced tea or an edge of your seat NASCAR race, their music has already worked its way into the lexicon of Southern life. They are a force to be reckoned with.

MEET THE BAND
Randall Calvert - Lead Guitar

A founding member of Silver Travis, Calvert was originally from Spartanburg, SC. He now resides in Columbus, NC with his family, where he is owner of the town's finest family restaurant, Calvert's Kitchen.

Randall was heavily influenced by Toy Caldwell, although depending on the instrument he is playing you can hear a diverse range of influences. He can also make a flat pickin’ acoustic guitar sing.
Rick Cash - Lead Vocals & Percussion

When Rick Cash joined Silver Travis in the Winter of 1981, the band was blessed with one of the most original and powerful voices in the South. Rick and his brother Mike Cash made it to the finals of the ‘Be a Star’ contest broadcast on CMT hosted by Bobby Randall of Sawyer Brown.

Rick began singing in Church as a teen and to this day you can still hear a hint of soulful gospel tones in his voice.

Some of Ricks major influences thru the years include Doug Gray of The Marshall Tucker Band, BJ Thomas, Gregg Allman, Jimmy Hall, Ray Charles, James Taylor, Michael English and Larry Stewart.
Brad Durden - Piano, Hammond B-3, Keyboards

Brad joined Silver Travis in July 2009. He started playing in bands at the age of 15 and has toured with various groups since 1986. Brad joined the southern rock band Copperhead in 1991, who signed a deal with Mercury Records in 1992, recorded an album and toured from 1992 to 1994, sharing the stage with groups ranging from the Kentucky Headhunters, Molly Hatchet, .38 Special, and Lynyrd Skynyrd to Foreigner, Survivor, and Quiet Riot. He also had a short stint in country music and opened for such artists as Kenny Chesney and the Dixie Chicks. Brad’s influences range from Jon Lord (Deep Purple), Billy Powell (Lynyrd Skynyrd), and Elton John to “really anyone who has played piano, Hammond organ or keys in general”. Brad says “I try to pick up styles from most players and blend them into my own.” Brad also writes songs and hopes to be a contributor to future Silver Travis recordings.
John Gillie - Acoustic & Electric Guitars

John Gillie of Columbus, NC is a local celebrity in his own right. Silver Travis is blessed to have John and his writing/playing skills as a member of the group. Ronnie Van Zant is a huge influence for John as a songwriter, and the original Lynyrd Skynrd Band would have to be his all-tme favorites.
Joey Parrish - Electric Bass

Another founding member, Joey plays Fender, Cort and Washburn guitars. He was heavily influenced by the Capricorn Records era. When not working or playing music, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

Mike Satterfield - Drums & Percussion

Mike Satterfield is another founding band member who has been playing drums for over 35 years. Mike says he owes a lot to Joe Bennett of The Sparkletones who taught him a lot and got him started as a youngster.

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