Biography
James 'Boo Boo' Davis was born on November 4, 1943, in Drew, Mississippi, a small town near Clarksdale in the heart of the Delta blues region. He began his musical journey at an exceptionally young age, starting to play drums with his family band when he was seven years old, though he would later develop proficiency as a vocalist and harmonica player as well. His nickname 'Boo Boo' was derived from his father's brothers, James, establishing a family connection to his stage identity.
Throughout his career, Davis has performed as a multi-instrumentalist bluesman, working both as a solo artist and in partnership with other musicians, notably Arthur Williams. He represents one of the last generations of blues musicians who write and perform based on firsthand experience of the blues tradition, having been immersed in music since childhood. His work spans traditional blues and modern blues styles, with recordings that showcase his authentic approach to the genre.
Boo Boo Davis stands as a survivor of the classic blues era, maintaining his connection to the authentic Delta blues tradition while continuing to perform and record. His longevity in the music industry and dedication to preserving the blues through lived experience rather than academic study make him a significant figure in contemporary blues music. His most popular recordings, including 'I'm So Tired,' demonstrate his enduring appeal to blues audiences.
Fun Facts
- Boo Boo Davis began his musical career at age five, making him a lifelong musician with over 70 years of experience in the blues
- His stage name 'Boo Boo' was derived from his father's brothers, both named James, creating a family legacy within his professional identity
- He is a multi-instrumentalist who has performed as a vocalist, harmonica player, and drummer throughout his career, demonstrating remarkable versatility
- Davis represents one of the last surviving generations of blues musicians who learned and developed their craft through direct experience in the Delta blues tradition rather than formal training
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Family Band Members - Early musical training and foundational blues education (Family band performances) [1950-1960s]
Key Collaborators
- Arthur Williams - Long-term performance partnership as blues musicians (Various blues performances and recordings) [Not specified in available sources]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| What Kind of Shit Is This? | 2014-04-09 | Album |
| Name of the Game | 2008-09-08 | Album |
| Undercover Blues | 2010-12-06 | Album |
| Transatlantic Quarantaine Sessions | 2021-12-12 | Album |
| Oldskool | 2015-08-24 | Album |
| The Trio 2008 - 2019 | 2008 | Album |
| Drew, Mississippi | 2006-09-04 | Album |
| Boo Boo Davis Remixed | 2015-06-16 | Album |
| blues + beat | 2011-03-28 | Album |
| Ain't Gotta Dime | 2009-10-12 | Album |
| Tree Man | 2019-02-18 | Album |
| One Chord Blues | 2016-01-10 | Album |
| Name Of The Game | 2015-01-01 | Album |
| East St Louis | 1999-12-01 | Album |
| Boo Boo's Blues | 2023-09-17 | Album |
Top Tracks
- If You Ain't Never Had the Blues (What Kind of Shit Is This?)
- I'm so Tired (Name of the Game)
- Half a Rap (What Kind of Shit Is This?)
- Have A Good Time (Undercover Blues)
- Who Stole the Booty (Name of the Game)
- Bye Bye Baby (What Kind of Shit Is This?)
- Lowdown Dirty Blues (Transatlantic Quarantaine Sessions)
- Let Me Love You Baby (What Kind of Shit Is This?)
- Silvermine (The Trio 2008 - 2019)
- Sorry Baby (What Kind of Shit Is This?)
External Links
- Spotify
- [Wikipedia](Not found in search results)
- MusicBrainz
Tags: #electric-blues
Heard on WWOZ
Boo Boo Davis has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 27, 2025 | 11:31 | Turkey Walkfrom Undercover Blues | New Orleans Music Showw/ Michael Dominici |