As from 1st of January 2008 Steve Travis, has announced his decision to retire from performing live. The New years eve gig at Wickham Bishops was to be his last show.

As you know, Steve burst on our country scene with a ‘showcase’ performance at the Strumpshaw  (Scrumpshaw as some call it) festival 18 years ago. With a new and lively act he developed a career that involved plenty of audience participation and Steve soon became one of our best loved entertainers and is recognised as being one of England's top solo artistes.

In an interview with a local magazine Steve had this to say:

“Eventually though, it was the travelling that got the better of me. 18 years up and down Englands Motorways, quite often not getting home until the small wee hours. Missing regular meal times and catching up on meals at motorway service stations and McDonalds. 

When we asked Steve what 18 years of performing meant to him he replied “17 years of driving vans, hanging around in dressing rooms or toilets and 1 year of singing”

“Entertaining is what I love, its what I do and its what I always wanted to do right from leaving school, but being on stage is such a small part of the business. I just grew tired of the driving home at 3 o.clock in the morning. It was not uncommon to see mr milkman starting his rounds as I arrived home. It will inevitably  take a toll on health and family life.” Steve says. “I knew I would have to stop touring one day and various reasons make now seem the right time!”

“Prior to becoming a full time professional entertainer I enjoyed a modicum of success as a wood carver, carving ducks and shorebirds from driftwood, I intend to pursue this avenue once again.

Also, two years ago I had my first book published and that sold quite well so I would like to develop my writing skills. I intend to write my biography. I will still record and release a new album each year.”

“Naturally there are many people that I really want to thank, people that have made my journey possible.  I would like to thank the many club promoters  that have allowed me to entertain at their clubs, many clubs I have returned to from day one. I want to thank the many loyal fans who have stayed with me, many becoming good friends. Thanks to the radio DJ’s who have played my songs on the radio. Thanks to the many fabulous musicians who I have had the privilege and enjoyment  to work along side.”

Will I return to live performances again?  “Well, never say never!”