Merle Travis was an influential American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist, born on November 29, 1917, in Rosewood, Kentucky. He is best known for his unique fingerpicking guitar style, which has inspired countless musicians. Travis gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s with hits like "Sixteen Tons" and "Divorce Me C.O.D." Travis's contributions to music extended beyond his own recordings; he also wrote songs for other artists and played a significant role in the development of the Travis picking technique. His work has left a lasting impact on the genres of country, folk, and rock music.