Tyrone Davis (Finding Aid)

Tyrone Davis

1938 - 2005

Favorite Color: Black

Favorite Food: Pork

Favorite Time of Year: Summer

Favorite Vacation Spot: Home

Interview Length: 89 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 15, 2000

Interview Location(s): Herb Kent's Home, Chicago, Illinois, Herb Kent's Home, Chicago, IL

Abstract

Soul singer Tyrone Davis discusses being the valet for Freddie King. Davis recalls his adolescence in Mississippi during the 1950s and his desire to move to Saginaw, Michigan. Davis discusses his urban transformation and, also, of his trip back to Mississippi to visit his family. Additionally, Davis discusses his decision to move to Chicago, Illinois in 1957 and his eventual desire to pursue an entertainment career. Davis talks about singing at Chicago local clubs and working for Willie Barney of Barney's Record Shop and Four Brothers Records. Finally, Davis remembers the sudden death of his mentor, Harold Burrage. Soul singer Tyrone Davis discusses how he was affected by the death of his mentor, Harold Burrage. He further discusses working with Monk Higgins and meeting his manager, Wally Roker. Davis also talks about recording his hit single, 'Baby, Can I Change My Mind?' in 1968. Davis discusses his work with Brunswick Records and, eventually, the recording of 'A Woman Needs to Be Loved.' Davis discusses the release and success of the single, 'Baby, Can I Change My Mind' in Houston, Texas. Finally, Tyrone Davis discusses his realization that he'd been recording successful songs without a recording contract. Soul singer Tyrone Davis discusses his first recording contract and his first musical tour. Davis also discusses the recording of 'You Can't Keep a Good Man Down' and the hit song, 'Turn Back the Hands of Time.' Additionally, Davis talks about his favorite song that he's recorded. Finally, Tyrone Davis discusses the unfairness of the music industry and radio stations, his intention to self-publish, and his admiration of Luther Vandross. Soul singer Tyrone Davis discusses his commitment to loyalty in the music industry, his legacy, and how far he's come in his life.

29 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)