TYRONE DAVIS

Biography

Tyrone Davis, born Tyrone D. Fettson (or Branch) on May 4, 1938, near Greenville, Mississippi, emerged from humble beginnings as the son of sharecroppers. He moved north with his family, first to Saginaw, Michigan, and then settled in Chicago in 1959. In Chicago, Davis worked as a valet and chauffeur for blues legend Freddie King by day, while performing in South Side clubs at night. His talent was recognized by pianist Harold Burrage, who helped him record his first single in 1965 under the stage name 'Tyrone the Wonder Boy.'[3][4][6]

Davis's career took off in 1968 when he signed with Dakar Records and released 'Can I Change My Mind,' which became a number one hit on the R&B charts and reached number three on the pop charts. This success marked a shift from his blues-influenced beginnings to a smoother, romantic soul style that defined his signature sound. Throughout the 1970s, Davis continued to dominate the charts with hits like 'Turn Back the Hands of Time' and 'Turning Point,' ultimately placing 43 singles on the R&B charts between 1968 and 1988. He later explored disco with tracks such as 'Give It Up (Turn It Loose)' and signed with Columbia Records in 1977.[1][3][4][6]

Davis's music, characterized by heartfelt vocals and themes of love and reconciliation, resonated deeply with audiences and influenced the soul and blues scenes, especially in Chicago. His enduring popularity earned him a loyal following and recognition, including the R&B Foundation Pioneer Award in 1998. Davis remained active on the 'chitlin circuit' for decades, performing until his death from stroke complications in 2005. His legacy endures as one of America's most beloved soul singers.[4][5][6]

Fun Facts

• Tyrone Davis originally performed under the name 'Tyrone the Wonder Boy' before achieving fame.
• His breakthrough hit 'Can I Change My Mind' was actually the B-side of his first Dakar single, gaining popularity after a DJ played it by chance.
• Davis was known as a 'ladies' man,' with many of his songs focusing on love and relationships, contributing to his popularity.
• He received the R&B Foundation Pioneer Award in 1998 for his lifetime contributions to the genre.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Freddie King - Davis worked as King's valet and chauffeur, absorbing blues influences and gaining industry exposure. (Live performances, early career support) [Late 1950s]
• Bobby 'Blue' Bland - Cited as a major stylistic influence on Davis's vocal approach and repertoire. (General influence on Davis's soul-blues style) [1960s]
• Little Milton - Influenced Davis's blend of blues and soul, and shared stage at concerts and festivals. (Concerts, blues festivals) [1960s–1970s]
• Harold Burrage - Discovered Davis in Chicago clubs and helped him record his first single. (First single (1965)) [1965]

Key Collaborators

• Carl Davis - Producer who urged Tyrone Davis to sign with Dakar Records and produced his early hits. ('Can I Change My Mind', Dakar Records singles) [1968–1970s]
• Otis Clay - Soul blues singer and friend from Chicago's music scene; performed together at events. (Live performances, Chicago club scene) [1960s–1970s]

Artists Influenced

• Countless blues and soul bands in the Delta and Chicago - Davis's songs became staples in their repertoires, shaping the sound of regional blues and soul. ('Can I Change My Mind', 'Turn Back the Hands of Time') [1970s–present]
• Modern soul and R&B artists - Inspired by Davis's smooth vocal style and romantic themes. (General influence on contemporary soul) [1980s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. In the Mood (In the Mood with Tyrone Davis (Expanded Edition))
2. Turn Back The Hands Of Time (Turn Back The Hands Of Time)
3. Can I Change My Mind (Can I Change My Mind)
4. Sure Wasn't Me (Relaxin' With Tyrone)
5. Ain't Nothing I Can Do (In the Mood with Tyrone Davis (Expanded Edition))
6. Kiss You (Relaxin' With Tyrone)
7. Turning Point (Turning Point)
8. In the Mood
9. Tip Toe Through the Bedroom (Love Line)
10. Sugar Daddy (Relaxin' With Tyrone)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia