RESOLUTION HONORING CARL DAVIS. "THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC"
WHEREAS, Carl H. Davis Sr., "The Man Behind the Music," has been a legendary music producer and record executive for more than 40 years and is considered to be a pioneer in R&B music. He was the impetus behind numerous successful recording artists and the genius behind the unique sounds that emanated from a wealth of talented Chicago and Chicago-area artists and musicians; and
WHEREAS, His first successful recording was Gene Chandler's multi-million selling hit "The Duke of Earl," which carved out an indelible niche for Carl Davis as a gifted "hit maker" with an innovative approach for producing and developing artist. He continued his hit parade with numerous artists such as Major Lance, Walter Jackson and the Dells, the Chi-Lites, Jackie Wilson, Tyrone Davis, Barbara Acklin, Mary Wells, and Young-Holt Unlimited; and
WHEREAS, His visionary leadership is responsible for what became known around the world as the "Chicago Sound." He also brought together the talent and brilliance of Curtis Mayfield and legendary arranger Johnny Pate to develop a unique sound that further solidified Chicago's prominence and place in the pages of music history; and
WHEREAS, In 1962, Carl Davis made music industry history here in Chicago as the first African American A&R Executive for CBS Records, which opened the door for greater opportunities for minorities in executive management; and
WHEREAS, Carl Davis produced the Jackie Wilson hit "Higher and Higher," which was later the campaign theme song when Senator Barack Obama announced his candidacy for president of the United States in 2007. In November 2008, "Higher and Higher" was also the victory theme song on the historic night in Chicago's Grant Park, where Barack Obama spoke to the nation; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Robert W. Fioretti, Alderman of the 2nd Ward, has apprised this august body of the accomplishments of Carl Davis and how he has earned the admiration and respect o...
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