Claire Davis

Emerging Indie Singer-Songwriter

Claire Davis is a musical time traveler. Known for her mighty and expressive vocals, Davis authentically and effortlessly brings the sounds of ‘60s and ‘70s soul into the present on her debut solo EP Thrive. Recording the EP to tape, Davis stays true to the golden years of soul music that inspire her most, “I wanted to have the flavour of some of my favourite soul records while also being unique compositionally.” Davis explains, “Using an analog process is all about capturing the vibe of a performance- it’s a practice in giving up the idea of perfection and tapping into the moment when you’re recording.” Davis developed her love for soul and R&B early, learning to sing lead and background vocals in her high school’s 12-piece Motown R&B band in her hometown, Victoria, British Columbia. The band performed approximately 30 shows a year, including a headlining show backing up Martha Reeves of “Martha & the Vandellas”; formative experiences would inspire Davis to pursue a career in music. Moving to Toronto in 2008, Davis joined the renowned African roots choir “The Nathaniel Dett Chorale”, and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Music Degree from Humber College. Carving out her reputation as a powerhouse front-woman and background vocalist in the Toronto music scene, Davis joined seven-piece retro funk ensemble YUKA as their lead singer on full-length album releases From the Ancients (2015) and Dreamscape (2019) to critical acclaim. Regarded as one of the best live acts coming out of Toronto, YUKA shared the stage with The Dap-Kings, Lee Fields and the Expressions, Treme Brass Band, and The Soul Jazz Orchestra. Davis also established herself as a go-to background vocalist for all things soul, performing with legends Martha Reeves (of Martha & the Vandellas), Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, and Jully Black, top Toronto breakout artists Charlotte Day Wilson, Jessie Reyez, and Daniel Caesar. Stepping out on her own as a solo artist, Davis teamed up with producer and YUKA bandmate Scott McCannelll to write and record her debut EP Thrive. An EP that explores themes of relationships and heartbreak, the title track centres on the relationship we have with ourselves- the relationship that all else is built upon, “We blossom the most when we love and take care of ourselves first- it’s the only thing we can truly control.” says Claire of the track. Thrive was released digitally on July 16, 2021 and a 45rpm of Thrive/ Playground was released by UK Label LRK Records in early 2022.