David Davis, the popular lead vocalist and mandolin player from Cullman, AL, was inducted into the Alabama Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame earlier this month. Other inductees include banjo player Herb Trotman, singer Ginger Boatwright, the Brasher Brothers and the late guitarist Garry Thurmond, formerly of the Flint River Boys and the Warrior River Boys, Davis’ touring band.
Davis has led his band for 26 years, forging a unique place for his artistic flair. He has appeared live for over two million people in 45 states, all Canadian provinces and even the Bahamas. The group itself actually continues a 40 year musical legacy.
“I am tremendously honored to be included among these talented honorees. I accept this honor on behalf of so many great players and singers who came through the band in last 26 years from Alabama and other states.”
He credited his early musical opportunities to the influences of his late father Leddell Davis, his maternal grandfather J.H. Bailey, and all his family, including his uncle Cleo Davis, who was one of Bill Monroe’s first recruits. Davis also thanked the fellow honoree the late Garry Thurmond for giving him his start in professional music.
“Being accepted by your peers and friends is something we work hard for and it is appreciated.”
Davis is extremely proud of his Alabama musical roots drawing upon the heritage of other Alabamians including Hank Williams and the Louvin Brothers to fuel his creativeness.
“For the last three albums, I have been making a conscious effort to create music that will appeal to all ages while remaining the most traditional sound out there. I have been working to find the right balance between the traditional sound that we are respected for preserving while creating music that will cross all music genres.”
Currently the Warrior River Boys includes Marty Hays playing bass, Owen Saunders playing fiddle, Robert Montgomery on banjo and Brad Folk on guitar.
Davis said Bill Monroe was innovative for his time and he is working to bring a new approach to the tradition for today.
“We are continuing to find that needle in the haystack to create a style with the traditional roots that will be accepted by today’s audiences.”
Their latest Rebel Records CD Two Dimes And A Nickel was number 11 on the March Cashbox Top Bluegrass Albums chart.
