Blues Traveler is an American rock band that formed in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1987. They are known for their extensive use of segues in live performances, and could be considered a key part of the re-emerging jam band scene of the 1990s, spearheading the H.O.R.D.E. touring music festival.
The group comprises singer and harmonica player John Popper, guitarist Chan Kinchla, drummer Brendan Hill, bassist Tad Kinchla, and keyboardist Ben Wilson. Tad Kinchla and Ben Wilson joined the band following the death of original bassist Bobby Sheehan in 1999.
The general public is most familiar with the group from their hit singles "But Anyway", "Run-Around", "Hook", the latter two from their 1994 album four which sold several million copies. Fans are allowed to record the band's concerts.
Sheehan's death and Popper's struggle with obesity put a damper on the group's mainstream success, and A&M dropped the band in 2002. In the years following, the band has attempted to work with a number of independent labels and record producers.
Blues Traveler's latest album, Traveler's Blues, was released in July 2021, and was nominated by The Recording Academy for Best Traditional Blues album in the 2022 Grammy Awards.
Also Known As: The Establishment,The Establishment Blues Band,The Black Cat Jam
Members:
John Popper - lead vocals, harmonica (1987-present)
Chan Kinchla - guitar (1987-present), backing vocals (1999-present)
Brendan Hill - drums (1987-present)
Tad Kinchla - bass, backing vocals (1999-present)
Ben Wilson - keyboards, backing vocals (2000-present)
Former:
Bobby Sheehan - bass (1987-1999; his death)
From: Princeton, New Jersey, U.S.
Genre(s):
Blues roc,
kfolk rock,
alternative rock,
southern rock,
jam band
Active From: 1987-present