Leo Davis
Since 1989, Dr. Leo H. Davis, Jr. has served as the Minister of Worship at the Mississippi
Boulevard Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Memphis, Tennessee, the largest African-American congregation within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in
the United States. As the Minister of Worship, he employs a wide variety of musical
genres such as traditional and contemporary gospel, African-American spirituals, anthems,
and classical worship selections. Versatility in music has enabled him to successfully
connect with multiple generations, cultures and ethnicities through worship music
that inspires people to serve the Lord, fulfill His purpose for them, and love one
another.
His educational background includes a Doctor of Musical Arts (Church Music and Conducting) from the University of Memphis; Master of Music (Organ and Choral Conducting) from the University of Massachusetts; and Bachelor of Music (Organ) from Roosevelt University (College of Music). He has served as consultant for several churches across the country. He has served as the Resident Artist in Sacred and Classical Music with the Carr Center of Detroit, MI, and has served chorus master for the upcoming "Too Hot To Handel" performance at the Orpheum Theater of Memphis.
Through his No Gimmicks Worship Consulting services, he has supported pastors, trained music ministry teams, and has lectured and conducted workshops across the country. This workbook is a companion to his widely acclaimed book, No Gimmicks – Relevancy, Commitment and Excellence in Worship Ministry, published in 2016. No Gimmicks 2.0 released October, 2019. He has also written music and worship resources for a number of recent publications including GIA Publications and The African American Lectionary.
He says he is first and foremost a steadfast Believer in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and grateful for the ability to honor, glorify and serve Him through gifts of music.
Interim Director -University Singers, University of Memphis. Memphis, TN.
Adjunct Professor- Chicago Theological Seminary, Chicago, IL
