Jay Davenport is a Chicago-bred drummer with deep roots in blues, soul, and jazz-influenced groove — the kind of player who makes a band feel relaxed, confident, and “right” without ever getting in the way. His feel is pocket-first, with a light touch and strong time that fits classic blues as naturally as more modern, open arrangements.
Born in 1960 and raised on the south side of Chicago, Davenport built his style from early influences like Art Blakey, Billy Cobham, and Steve Gadd, then developed his own voice in the Chicago R&B and blues circuit. He toured the U.S. with The Dells early in his road career, and later became part of the John Mayall band, serving as Mayall’s drummer for many years in the group’s later era. His playing is widely heard through Mayall’s live work during that period, where the job demands taste, restraint, and the ability to support long-form blues performances night after night.
Recent activity: Davenport’s most documented long-run role is as drummer for John Mayall’s touring band (beginning in 2009), with that chapter ending in the early 2020s as Mayall’s touring slowed and later stopped.
Plays: Pearl; Paiste; Vic Firth.
Sources: JohnMayall.com; Blues Blast Magazine; All About Jazz; AllMusic; Jay Davenport (official Facebook page); LinkedIn (John Mayall Band touring timeline).
Update: January 23, 2026
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