John Starr
Special to 2theadvocate.com
Benjy Davis Project has been a staple of the Louisiana collegiate circuit for many years, but has most recently begun to tap into the mainstream market.
With hits like "Louisiana Saturday Night" being played at every proper tailgate party or "Sweet Southern Moon" being the anthem for the Abita Brewery, Benjy Davis has seen his project become a formidable force in the area music scene.
Davis said he hopes the group continues to build momentum, but also said he is aware that it can end tomorrow.
Benjy Davis Project is an ever-evolving group of musicians who all contribute their unique talents to the group.
"I started writing songs when I was about 14," Davis said. "I was practicing some songs, and I met a guy who started beating on the guitar. I was like, 'You play the drums,' and he was like, 'Yeah.'"
That guy was Mic Capdevielle, who has been with the Benjy Davis Project since its inception.
"We got together and started playing coffee houses and stuff," recalled Davis.
From there, they built the group up into the current six-piece ensemble, but most importantly into a family, Davis said.
"We've been doing this together for five or six years now, and we have all the same issues a family would have," he said. "Some of the guys are getting ready to go. They got married, and it's like saying goodbye to your brother."
This kind of relationship can be expected from a group that is constantly traveling together on tour. Currently they are touring with the High Tide Blues Band from Auburn, Ala.
However, the touring schedule can be a little confusing.
"Pretty much I don't know what is going on, because I'm always concentrated on what I am doing at the moment," admitted Davis. "Yeah, I just get in the van."
"I am pretty sure we have a busy fall, and we try to book at least three or four months in advance," he added.
A busy fall, indeed. The band will re-release their last album (their fourth), "Dust," with three additional songs under Atlanta-based record label Rockridge.
"A lot of that album is about love and a really long relationship I had," Davis said.
"I try to write what I know. I think people are receptive because they are living the same life," he said. "I try to be relatable and hope that it manifests itself."
Over the years, the Benjy Davis Project has taken on different styles of music, including the alternative vibe of "More than Local" or the rock vibe of "Dust."
As for whether he made the right decision to enter the music field, Davis is certain this is where he should be.
"I never really questioned it," Davis said. "Once I started to play guitar, I fell in love with it. I'm happy where I am, but I hope it goes better. It keeps us busy. I've been really lucky to do this as my job."
With the celebrity the Project has achieved, Davis has had some opportunities to meet music legends, but he knows the importance of playing it cool.
"I was on an elevator with Ziggy Marley one time," Davis recalled. "I was in New Orleans at the Big Easy awards, and George Porter and Dr. John came up at the same time, and I was like, 'Does anybody have a camera?' I can't prove it to anybody."
The success of the Benjy Davis Project has also brought the band's members some perks, such as the relationship with Abita Beer. The brewery provided kegs for some of the group's celebrations.
Davis understands that all of this wouldn't be possible without the fans.
To his fans, Davis would like to say, "I love you! Thanks for sticking with me while I explore this sonic universe.
"I know when we switch style or direction, there were people who didn't buy the next record, but there were people who did buy the next record, whether they had bought the previous one before or not," he said.
"I just want to say thank you," Davis said.
For more information on the music and upcoming performances of the Benjy Davis Project, check out their website bdpmusic.com.
















