Discovering Jesse Ed Davis: Douglas K. Miller’s Tribute to an Indigenous Rock Legend
- Miller's new book, Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis, is out now.
- Miller's book explores Davis's life, from his Oklahoma roots to his career in Los Angeles.
- Alongside the book's release, an exhibition titled “Jesse Ed Davis: Natural Anthem” opens at the Bob Dylan Center on November 15.
Douglas K. Miller’s new book, Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis, is out now. The book highlights Jesse Ed Davis, a Kiowa-Comanche guitarist known for his extensive work in music, including collaborations with Taj Mahal and Jackson Browne. Despite Davis’s significant contributions, he remains less known than many of his peers.
Miller’s book explores Davis’s life, from his Oklahoma roots to his career in Los Angeles. The book combines family interviews and historical records with insights from music legends who worked with Davis. It aims to celebrate Davis’s legacy while addressing the challenges he faced, including struggles with addiction.
Alongside the book’s release, an exhibition titled “Jesse Ed Davis: Natural Anthem” opens at the Bob Dylan Center on November 15. Furthermore, Real Gone Music will release a double vinyl LP, Tomorrow May Not Be Your Day, featuring previously unreleased recordings. A concert with Jackson Browne, Taj Mahal, and Joy Harjo is scheduled for February 6 in Tulsa.
Miller connected with numerous artists during his research, starting with a family member of Davis, which led to interviews with significant figures in the music industry. He emphasizes that the concert and exhibition arose from his book project as a way to honor Davis’s impact on music.
In writing the book, Miller faced challenges in presenting Davis’s struggles with addiction and death without reinforcing negative stereotypes about Indigenous peoples. He focused on celebrating Davis’s achievements as a musician, aiming to inspire future generations of Indigenous artists. Miller wants readers to recognize Jesse Ed Davis as a significant figure in popular music, showcasing his journey as both an artist and a person.
Washita Love Child presents not only the story of a musician but also highlights the importance of representation in the music industry. Through this work, Miller hopes to inspire dialogue and further exploration of Davis’s legacy.