Dax Davis plays at the Mule Barn on New Year’s Eve 2023. Photo by Hayden Browning.
By Hayden Browning
Nestled in the heart of Wise County, a musical group known as the Dax Davis Band is stirring up excitement with its unique blend of country, rock, and western swing.
This eclectic group has garnered attention not only locally but also beyond the county lines. The band’s journey traces back to humble beginnings at talent shows in the Slidell area, where they first showcased their stage presence by playing a song by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Spearheaded by Dax Davis, who not only serves as frontman but also manages band affairs, the group is swiftly gaining traction and expanding their performances to new venues over time.
After finalizing their first lineup, Wise County Messenger assistant editor Brendan Marchand said the band’s set started with “Can’t Stop” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. As the band evolved from modest gigs with Dax Davis and Zayne Browning to private and large events, with addition of members Riddick Davis, Keller Pruett, and Watson Warren infused new dimensions into their sound.
Watson’s incorporation of the steel guitar brought new depths to their performances. Each member of the band brings a unique musical background and influence on the table.
Pruett, the drummer, with roots deeply entrenched in punk and metal, adds a distinctive edge to their sound. Riddick Davis, the band’s bass player, said he draws from rock, country, and blues.
Meanwhile, Dax Davis said he finds inspiration from country legends like Chris Ledoux and Randall King. Browning, lead guitarist, embraces a wide spectrum of genres, from rock and old country to blues and pop, with influences ranging from John Mayer to Paul McCartney.
The band’s dedication and hard work have shown, resulting in numerous performances, including appearances at prestigious events like the Wise County Old Settlers’ Reunion in July 2023, totaling approximately 75 shows to date. Collaborations with established artists like Lawson Harris, a Nashville musician hailing from Wise County, have further solidified their standing in the music scene.
“I don’t know if I can keep up,” Harris said jokingly, reflecting on the band’s energy and talent.
Nashville artist Lawson Harris photographed in New Braunfels. Photo by Hayden Browning.
Traveling from venue to venue, the band draws inspiration from their collective passion for music. Their commitment to delivering top-notch performances is evident in their meticulous rehearsals and dedication to their craft.
The Dax Davis Band recently had the honor of opening for Cody Canada at a private event. Even Canada himself, now the lead singer and guitarist of the rock band The Departed, was impressed by their innate ability to captivate the crowd.
“Those boys most definitely have got something,” Canada remarked during the band’s set.
A significant milestone in their journey occurred on Dec. 12, 2023, when they auditioned for the show “America’s Got Talent,” showcasing their talents without electronic equipment and focusing on acoustic arrangements.
“In my time, I have played shows where it was literally just me and my guitar,” Davis said, reflecting on their adaptability.
Zayne Browning, lead guitarist and backup vocalist of the Dax Davis Band, plays on New Year’s Eve at the Mule Barn. Photo by Hayden Browning.
Even the band is aware of their spectrum of sounds. The band has quite a stretch of music diversity for the audience to enjoy.
“At the end of the day, we’re all pretty musically diverse,” Browning said. “We all have different tastes in music, but when we come together, we find a way to blend our interests, which I find pretty cool.”
With their dynamic performances and genre-blending style, the Dax Davis Band continues to solidify its position as a cornerstone of the Wise County music scene. Their seamless fusion of genres and infectious energy consistently captivate audiences, leaving a lasting impression wherever they go. As they evolve and refine their craft, the band’s impact on the local music scene remains steady.
About Reece Nations
