Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Louisiana's James Houston Davis was an extraordinary figure who over the decades had a successful career as a mainstream country performer, a gospel singer, a songwriter, a music publisher and a politician (eventually becoming the Governor of the state of Louisiana). This two CD compilation made up of 53 recordings for RCA's Bluebird label and Decca Records focuses on his secular material. It includes versions of his best known songs "You Are My Sunshine" and "Nobody's Darling But Mine" but also quite a few examples of the kind of double entendre blues-influenced tracks that were popular in the '30s. Considering that he found gospel fame and was inducted into the Gospel Hall Of Fame for such gospel classics as "I Wouldn't Take Nothing For My Journey Now" and "Someone To Care" it would be intriguing to know what his Christian supporters would have made of his recordings like "Tomcat And Pussy Blues" and "Organ Grinder Blues" (both featured here). But leaving aside the questionable lyrics, Jimmie communicated a warmth and bonhomie in all his work and those wanting to investigate country music's roots will find much of interest in this compilation.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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