Born and raised in Claremore, Oklahoma, Travis discovered his passion for music later in life, picking up the guitar in 2015. He had always enjoyed writing poetry and attending concerts, but it wasn’t until he met Steve Jones during a local jam night in 2019 when he decided to turn his words into melodies. Their musical chemistry was undeniable, leading to their first duo gig that same year. With the addition of Eric Smith on bass and drummer Ken McDermed, The Bison was born, evolving from a cover band into a force of Americana music.

The Bison's sound is a rich tapestry woven from various influences. Initially starting as a cover band, their original compositions reflect Travis’s Okie roots, leaning heavily into Americana. Each member brings their own flair: Travis’s love for '90s country, Steve’s rock influences, Eric’s penchant for Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley, and Euro Jazz/New Age, and Ken’s versatility that spans decades. This eclectic mix creates a vibrant, upbeat atmosphere that appeals to audiences of all ages.

When it comes to songwriting, collaboration is key. Travis and Steve often kick off the creative process by merging chords and lyrics, sometimes starting with a phrase that sparks inspiration. Once they have a rough idea, the rhythm section then joins in to flesh out the sound. This teamwork allows them to create music that resonates with both the band and their audience.

One of the band's most cherished moments came during the inaugural Bison Bash at Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa three years ago. This event aimed to showcase local talent, and the collective experience of watching artists share their gifts was profoundly moving. The energy was palpable, with 400 attendees supporting the local scene. Their final song at the most recent Bison Bash, featuring multiple artists, was a highlight as the crowd joyously sang along.

The Bison’s music centers around themes of love, joy, and the celebration of life. With all members happily married for many years, their songs reflect the positivity and good energy they hope to share with their audience. The goal is to create an uplifting atmosphere where people can dance and enjoy the moment.

Claremore has been instrumental in The Bison’s journey, providing unwavering support since their early gigs. From performing at local fairs to participating in community events, the band's connection to their hometown is strong. They appreciate the local artists who elevate the talent pool and are grateful for the financial support from the community.

The Bison loves to collaborate with local musicians, creating a vibrant network of artists who share their passion for music. Notable collaborations include performances with Emily Hollingshed, Legacy Lowenberg, and The Kilgores Family Band, among others. They are excited to launch a video series in 2025 that will highlight and collaborate with even more local talent.

Fans can expect new music and exciting shows in 2025, including their annual Bison Bash, which will be moved to September 20. The band is also exploring opportunities to perform at festivals and venues they haven’t yet played.

To stay connected with The Bison, fans can follow them on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and keep an eye on their website for updates. They encourage everyone to engage with their music and support local artists.

For those looking to follow in their footsteps, The Bison emphasizes the importance of perseverance. Keep playing, learning from others, and remember to stay humble. Collaboration and community support are key to growth in the music scene.

If The Bison could collaborate with any artist, the answers would vary widely—from Garth Brooks to Andreas Vollenweider. Music, they believe, plays an essential role in bringing people together, and they hope to foster a vibrant music scene in Claremore.

As they look to the future, The Bison envisions a continued evolution of their sound, possibly incorporating new members and expanding their creative horizons. With a commitment to honing their craft and sharing their experiences, they are poised to make a lasting impact on the music community.