Harrell "Young Rell" Davenport

Harrel "Young Rell" Davenport represents the rarest combination: a deeply rooted traditionalist with the instincts and imagination of a modern songwriter. A standout guitarist of striking maturity, a fat‑toned harmonica player with a signature attack, and a vocalist who sings with unforced authority, Young Rell has already emerged as one of the most compelling young voices in contemporary blues.
On June 6th, he released his first album ever, the eponymous Young Rell on Little Village Records. It has stayed in the number one spot on the Roots Music Report’s Top 10 Blues Albums for three weeks and counting! Three of the all-star members of the band on this album will be accompanying him for this performance.
As a child, Davenport navigated personal struggles and trauma by immersing himself in music that was born in response to oppression and hardship. He found solace studying and expressing himself in the blues. His songs are the poignant products of those tribulations.
His community building, graceful social interaction, and most importantly, his music has landed him relationships and experiences with the greatest blues artists alive today. He has been championed by Taj Mahal, Charlie Musselwhite, Billy Branch, Keb' Mo', Kingfish, and many others. He has performed at the Chicago Blues Festival, The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, The Lucerne (Switzerland) Blues Festival, and many more. This year he was awarded The B.B. King ”King of the Blues" Award by the Jus' Blues Foundation’s music awards.
One of Davenport's greatest strengths is the breadth of his musical vocabulary. His repertoire moves effortlessly from deep Mississippi Delta blues to acoustic country blues, from Chicago electric grit to southern soul. He understands the connective tissue between these styles because he has studied them — not casually, but obsessively.
This is a rare west coast appearance for this 19-year-old Mississippi Blues phenom. Come to The Back Room and witness living history!
Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.
Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.
The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.
Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.
Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.
Thank you for your support!