Description: Kevin Davidson’s musical journey commenced in his early years, where he immersed himself in the vibrant world of rock as a guitarist and bassist within high school bands. However, it was the enchanting allure of the flute that captured his musical soul, redirecting his focus toward this instrument.
His musical odyssey unfolded at the University of Port Elizabeth, where he earned a B. Mus (cum laude) in 1979. Subsequently, he ventured to Cape Town, becoming an integral member of Scott-Free, showcasing his skills on the tenor saxophone. Simultaneously, he contributed to the musical education landscape, imparting knowledge at the Jazz Workshop School of Music under the guidance of Merton Barrow.
Collaborating with luminaries like Winston Mankunku, Duke Makasi, and Robbie Jansen during his freelance years, Kevin’s proficiency expanded, paving the way for permanent teaching positions at Cape Town High and Bergvliet High schools. His expertise later secured him a coveted role at the Department of Performing Arts (Jazz and Popular Music) at Tshwane University of Technology, where he continued until his early retirement in 2016.
In a multifaceted career, Kevin Davidson has etched his name across various musical landscapes. From small ensemble collaborations with Carlo Mombelli to grandiose big band recordings with John Davies, his versatility shines. He shared stages with legends such as Pharoah Sanders, Dr. Yusef Lateef, and Abdullah Ibrahim, leaving an indelible mark on the jazz and popular music realms.
A prolific composer, Kevin boasts a repertoire of over 500 compositions, spanning small ensembles to full orchestras. His musical prowess extends to guitar, piano, saxophones (alto, soprano, tenor), flute, alto flute, and the EWI.
Beyond performance and composition, Kevin Davidson has contributed significantly to the musical literature with works like “Winston Mankunku, Tenor Saxophone Transcriptions” and articles like “Barney Rachabane,” showcasing his commitment to preserving and sharing musical legacies.
With four albums released since 2010, including “Breathing Winston Living John,” “Sacred Landscapes,” “Our Land, Our Music,” and “Let Sleeping Doggz Fly,” Kevin’s discography reflects a rich tapestry of influences and experiences. Currently, he ventures into the cosmic with his upcoming album, “Moosic,” narrating the curious tale of a bewildered cow standing on the surface of the moon.
