Uncover the untold story of Jesse Ed Davis, a rock star whose name has been lost in the annals of rock and roll history, from the author of a new biography of this Indigenous musician.
Davis, a talented guitarist who played alongside music legends like John Lennon, Mick Jagger, and Bob Dylan, was more than just the most versatile session guitarist of the decade - he was a game changer. As an Indigenous artist, Davis not only transformed rock music but also shattered stereotypes in a century often depicted as a period of decline for Native Americans, demonstrating new possibilities for future Indigenous people.
As one of the most sought-after guitarists of the late 1960s and 1970s, he contributed to dozens of major releases and records by artists as distinct as Johnny Cash, Taj Mahal, and Cher.
Douglas K. Miller, the author of the biography Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis, takes us on a journey through Davis's life and career, from his childhood in Oklahoma, to his first major gig backing rockabilly star Conway Twitty, to his memorable performance at George Harrison's 1971 Concert for Bangladesh.
Miller is also the author of Indians on the Move: Native American Mobility and Urbanization in the Twentieth Century. He is an Associate Professor in the History Department at Oklahoma State University.
This enlightening author event, funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library, is open to all. If you need special assistance, please call 563-344-4175 in advance.
The Bettendorf Public Library has served the community of Bettendorf since July 12, 1955. We offer Library events for all ages, and our meeting rooms are available for public use. See more information about our meeting room policy at http://www.bettendorflibrary.com/services/meeting-rooms.
