The British Invasion’s Hidden Gem: Spencer Davis – his story told by friend and bandmate, Ed Tree
Spencer Davis was a British rock musician and bandleader who became a major figure in the 1960s British Invasion, most notably as the founder of The Spencer Davis Group. Born in Swansea, Wales, Davis began his musical journey at a young age, inspired by American blues, jazz, and skiffle music. After moving to Birmingham to attend university, Davis immersed himself in the city’s burgeoning music scene, forming the Rhythm and Blues Quartet in 1963, which quickly evolved into The Spencer Davis Group.
The band’s classic lineup—featuring Spencer Davis on guitar and vocals, Steve Winwood on keyboards and vocals, Muff Winwood on bass, and Pete York on drums—created a distinctive blend of R&B, blues, and rock. With Steve Winwood’s soulful voice at the forefront, the band quickly found success with chart-topping hits like "Keep On Running," "Somebody Help Me," "Gimme Some Lovin’," and "I’m a Man." These tracks became iconic anthems of the era, solidifying their place in British rock history.
The Spencer Davis Group was known for its energetic performances and blues-driven sound, and their influence extended across the Atlantic, helping to shape the sound of the British Invasion in the U.S. Davis’s keen eye for talent was evident in his discovery of Steve Winwood, whose vocals and keyboard skills were integral to the group’s success. While Steve Winwood’s presence made the band famous, Davis was the guiding force, handling the management and direction of the group.
When Winwood left in 1967 to form Traffic, The Spencer Davis Group underwent changes but continued to release music. Though the post-Winwood years didn’t achieve the same level of success, Davis remained an active and passionate musician. He relocated to the U.S. in the late 1970s and became involved in various music projects, including collaborations with other musicians and solo work. He also became an advocate for preserving the Legacy of 1960s rock music.
Spencer Davis’s contributions to rock extended beyond just his band’s success. He played a crucial role in bringing American blues and R&B influences into the British mainstream, helping shape the direction of rock music in the 1960s. His ability to bridge these genres created a lasting impact on both sides of the Atlantic.
Davis continued performing well into his later years, touring and reuniting with various iterations of The Spencer Davis Group. His career, spanning over six decades, is a testament to his enduring passion for music. Spencer Davis passed away in 2020 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of musicians.
His influence on rock music, particularly the fusion of blues and rock, remains a cornerstone of his legacy. As the leader of one of the British Invasion’s most iconic bands, Spencer Davis helped to define the sound of an era, and his contributions to music continue to resonate today.
Spencer’s friend and bandmate Ed Tree joins us this week to share Spencer’s incredible story.
Ed is a highly respected American guitarist, producer, and songwriter known for his versatile work across genres like rock, Americana, country, and blues. He gained widespread recognition for his collaboration with British rock icon Spencer Davis, performing as Davis’s guitarist and musical partner for many years. Tree’s exceptional guitar skills and keen musical sensibilities made him an integral part of Davis’s live performances, adding depth to the iconic sound of The Spencer Davis Group in its later iterations.
Beyond his work with Spencer Davis, Ed Tree has enjoyed a rich career as a session musician, playing with renowned artists such as Rita Coolidge, Juice Newton, and Al Stewart. He has also produced numerous albums, further solidifying his reputation in the music industry. As a songwriter, Tree has contributed to a wide array of projects, showcasing his talent for crafting songs that resonate across multiple genres.
