Biography

Daryl Davis is best known for his talent as a musician; he is an international recording artist and is recognized for being one of the greatest Blues, Boogie Woogie & Rock ’n’ Roll pianists of all time. In addition to his music career, Daryl is the author of Klan-Destine Relationships, which was the first book written about the Ku Klux Klan by a Black author. His engagement with the KKK started when, while playing in an all-White band, when a member of the Klan praised him for his musical style. Daryl recognized that he had an opportunity to ask an important question about racism: “How can you hate me when you don’t even know me?” Daryl has interviewed hundreds of KKK members and other White supremacists and influenced many of them to renounce their racist ideology. His work in race relations has been highlighted in speaker series across the country. His documentary film, Accidental Courtesy, illustrates his process of conversation and understanding to bridge differences and promote racial reconciliation in true pro-human form. about racism: “how can you hate me when you don’t even know me?” Daryl has interviewed dozens of Klan members and influenced many of them to renounce the Klan. HIs work about race has been highlighted in speaker series across the country. His film, Accidental Courtesy, illustrates his process of conversation and understanding to bridge differences and promote racial reconciliation.