Before he finished in the final four last month on NBC’s The Voice, Joshua Davis’ soothing, soulful voice was electrifying Michigan audiences as the lead singer of the roots rock ensemble Steppin’ In It and as a member of the bands Starlight Six and Shout Sister Shout. He’s flying solo this month on a victory lap, of sorts, and he settles into a July 8 gig at Bell’s Eccentric Café for an evening of covers and original tunes.
For those who can’t wait: Davis also headlines a big show June 26 at the Wharton Center in East Lansing — a portion of the show proceeds go to benefit On Stage For Kids, an organization co-founded by Joshua Davis.
Never one to play it safe, Davis was the first Voice performer to sing an original song on the show, his rocking ode to America, “The Workingman’s Hymn” off his 2011 album Magnolia Belles. Tough and gritty, the song was like a well-worn bandana soaked in Michigan blood, sweat and tears and waved in front of a national audience to let them know the Great Lake State was pretty dang great. New Jersey has Bruce Springsteen, Indiana has John Mellencamp, and now Michigan has Joshua Davis.
The Bell’s show will likely feature his unique blend of folk, rock and soul, instilled with his inimitable storytelling sense. And it probably goes well with a nice summer wheat ale.
An Evening with Joshua Davis
Bell’s Eccentric Café (at Bell's Brewery), Kalamazoo
July 8, 9 p.m., $20
bellsbeer.com, (269) 382-2332
Joshua Davis and Steppin’ In It
Wharton Center, East Lansing
June 26, 8 p.m.
$25, $50 w/ Davis meet and greet
whartoncenter.com
