The Danny Hay Davis Band

By Lisa Pivowar

The Danny Hay Davis Band was nominated as “The Best New Act 2006” by the Cascade Blues Association and rightfully so.

One of the things that will strike you about this industrious man is not only his incredible talent, but the ability to surround himself with amazing musicians who are the icing on an already delicious cake. DHD Band members include: Gary Fountaine on bass guitar; Fenix Sanders saxophone and vocals; Frankie Redding keyboards; and Ron Hval on drums.

A personal favorite band member (other than Danny) is Fenix Sanders. With his smooth sax and deep melodic vocals you will be drawn in with the desire to want to know more about this regal and stately gentleman. That won’t be a problem; though very polite and reserved Sanders is always one to embrace and welcome interaction with his fans. He is usually warmly thanking regulars and newcomers alike for their interest whenever he can.

Muddy award winner Gary Fountaine has surely increased his fan base with his widely recognized and popular guitar skills.

From Portland, Ore., Davis has created his own distinct brand of music for over two decades. What is impressive is that Davis is not selling music, he is selling himself and that shows in a wonderful way. Genuine and honest, this hard-working musician stands behind his all-original lyrics, delivered in a rich, simple rhythm, laced with colorful and exciting fretwork.

Davis played over 600 shows as lead guitarist for blues, country, and rock band The Yanks from 2002 through 2004, still collaborating with guitarist David Graham. They opened for acts such as Molly Hatchet and Jimmy Van Zandt. After leaving the Yanks in 2005 and working on a solo project, Davis released 97211 in 2006, as well as forming the DHD (Danny Hay Davis) Band the same year.

Davis has performed at some of the best Blues festivals in the Pacific Northwest. He performed his original material on Beale Street in Memphis, was broadcast on the radio in four countries, sold CDs in nine countries and 14 states, so far. That might lead one to believe his passion and dedication deserve to be recognized.

Davis began his musical journey while attending Grant High School; his first gig in 1982 was as a battle-of- the-bands winner. He then studied music at Mt. Hood Community College, then played jazz, rock, funk, R&B and blues professionally.

Davis first performed, when 17 years old, as lead guitarist for an all-original music band called Zachary River at Gladstone Tavern and The Wooden Chicken.

He gave up performing in 1995, concentrating on raising children and construction. Danny began playing professionally again in 2000 to supplement income with the classic rock band Avalanche. He paid for all his construction company fuel costs with gig wages and that put Davis back in the gig game.

Davis has done the math and is now proud to say his musical career has brought more rewards and steady jobs than his now defunct career in concrete! As a single Dad with a few children, he juggles his career with their schedules. Hailey, 8 and very proud to call Davis her Dad, keeps this caring musician grounded. He states when talking about what is important, it clearly is setting a good road map for the kids and not selling himself short when it comes to making his musical dream ambitions become a reality.

The success Davis is enjoying now couldn’t have found a nicer guy. His humbleness but pride in himself and those around him makes this writer eagerly look forward to keeping an eye on Davis and the DHD band. An upcoming new CD will be released in the next few months. Show your support if you are so inclined.

Every Tuesday, Davis hosts the jam session at Out Of the Blues at 8 p.m. in Tigard Ore. At 17939 S.W. McEwan. Every Wednesday night is a performance at the Blue Diamond, 2016 N.E. Sandy Blvd. at 8:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 22-23 and Jan.19-20 the band plays at Shanahan’s Pub, 209 W. McLoughlin, Vancouver, Wash. from 9-1; Sunday, Dec. 31 New Years Eve is at the Queen of Hearts, 5501 S.E. 72nd Ave.9 p.m.

- Positively Entertainment