-
In the late 1960s, Universal Records in Houston, Texas, played a modest but pivotal role in the local music scene, catering to a growing demand for blues, rock, and rhythm and blues. Operating under the radar of major national labels, Universal provided a platform for regional talent, allowing artists to record and release 45 RPM singles that would often find a dedicated audience in Texas and surrounding areas. The label was known for recording artists in the vibrant Houston area, and its releases were characterized by raw, authentic sounds reflective of Texas’s musical heritage.
One of Universal Records’ standout acts was “The Traits,” a band led by blues-rock guitarist and vocalist Johnny Winter. Winter, who would go on to become one of the most influential figures in blues-rock, started gaining traction with his energetic performances and virtuosic guitar skills, even as he remained relatively unknown outside Texas. During this period, The Traits released singles like Harlem Shuffle, Somewhere, Parchman Farm, and Tramp under Universal, with Shelton Bissell as their arranger. These records showcased Winter’s unique fusion of blues and rock, distinguishing him as a notable emerging talent and providing early glimpses of his electric blues style.
Around 1967 Johnny Winter led the Traits Band (previously led by Roy Head) it is not really clear and sure on which records Johnny actually performed. Most likely he performed on "Tramp" which was recorded during the brief period in 1967 when Johnny Winter was the leader of "The Traits" and it was released under the group name, in a pressing of 300 45s on the Universal label.
This is some of the information available on Roy Head and the Traits:
Roy Head has worn more hats than a crooked politician. He has been a teen heart throb, an R&B sensation and a country music performer.
Born in Three Rivers, Texas on September 1, 1941, his mom was a full blooded Indian and his dad an itinerant worker. While a teenager he formed his band, the Traits, so named because the 24 members had so many different personality traits. Roy Head was the Band Leader and vocalist, Dan Buie played piano, Bill Pennington played bass, Tommy Bolton was lead guitar and Jerry Gibson drummed. Many listeners assumed that Head's growling vocals were indeed that of a black man.
As often happens in the record business, once the money starts rolling in is when the grumbling starts. Roy cut the Traits loose and went solo while the band recruited Dean Scott and later, Johnny Winter as their front man. After this period, nothing is known of the whereabouts of the individual Traits.
Meanwhile, Roy was riding high on national tours, traveling to gigs in style. He even appeared on Dick Clark's American Bandstand. By the late '60s tastes had shifted from R&B to Psychedelic rock. He reunited the Traits briefly and had some outstanding records but this fad passed soon. This recording contains his early singles - Teeny Weeny Bit & One More Time. Today he's semi- retired, living on his ranch in Porter, Texas.
1960s Texas Pop
THE TRAITS
Universal Records LH-2516 30494
Universal Records
LH-2516
30494
Harlem Shuffle
(Relf-Nelson)
The Traits
Arranged by Shelton Bissell
45 RPM
Keman Pub. Co.
BMI-2:22
Sheraton-Lincoln Hotel – Houston, Tex.
1960s Texas Pop
THE TRAITS
Universal Records U-30494 LH-2517
Universal Records
U-30494
LH-2517
Somewhere
(L. Bernstein)
The Traits
Arranged by Shelton Bissell
45 RPM
G. Schirmer, Inc. ASCAP
1960s Texas Pop
THE TRAITS
Universal Records U-30496 TSB 128419
Universal Records
U-30496
TSB 128419
Parchman Farm
(M. Allison)
The Traits
45 RPM
Allison BMI-2:25
Universal Records – Sheraton-Lincoln Hotel – Houston, Texas 77002
1960s Texas Pop
THE TRAITS
Universal Records U-30496 ZTSB 128420
Universal Records
U-30496
ZTSB 128420
Tramp
(McCracklin-Fulsom)
The Traits
45 RPM
Modern Music Co. BMI-2:15
Universal Records – Sheraton-Lincoln Hotel – Houston, Texas 77002