Spencer Davis
Steve Winwood Remembers Spencer Davis: ‘Like a Big Brother to Me’
Earlier today, it was announced that Spencer Davis, the guitarist of the Spencer Davis Group, died on Tuesday at the age of 81. Perhaps the most famous alumnus from the group was a young Steve Winwood, who joined the group as a teen. Winwood remembered Davis with a statement on his website. Recalling how they met when he was 13 (Davis was 22 at the time) in Birmingham, Winwood said that Davis was “an early pioneer of the British folk scene, which, in his case embraced folk blues, and eventually what was then called ‘Rhythm and Blues,’” the statement continues. “He influenced my tastes in music, he owned the first 12-string guitar I ever saw, and he was taken with the music of Huddie ‘Lead belly’ Ledbetter, and Big Bill Broonzy. I’d already got a big brother who influenced me greatly, and S...
Spencer Davis, ‘Gimme Some Lovin’ Guitarist, Dies at 81
Spencer Davis, the guitarist best known for his hits ubiquitous late-’60’s hits “I’m a Man” and “Gimme Some Lovin’” with his band the Spencer Davis Group, died in California at the age of 81, the BBC reports. According to his agent Bob Birk, Davis died in the hospital on Oct. 19 while being treated for pneumonia “He was a very good friend,” Birk told the BBC. “He was a highly ethical, very talented, good-hearted, extremely intelligent, generous man. He will be missed.” Born in Swansea, Wales, Davis’ first group, the Saints, featured future Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman. He also performed with Christine Perfect, who, using her married name of Christine McVie, went on to join Fleetwood Mac. The guitarist and multi-instrumentalist formed the Spencer Davis Group in Birmingham, U...
