Lifetime Achievement Award 2026
Dr. Ashley K. Davis
🎹 Honoring Musical Legacy: Dr. Ashley K. Davis
Dr. Ashley K. Davis is a celebrated composer, conductor, educator, and visionary whose contributions to music have spanned more than three decades. As the Founder of Kerygma Music, Dr. Davis has built a publishing and production platform dedicated to crafting inspirational and transformative works that blend musical excellence with messages of faith, hope, and empowerment. His compositions and arrangements transcend genres, embodying the spirit of creativity and purpose that defines his legacy.
In his role as Artistic Director of the Stax Music Academy and Soulsville Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Davis has nurtured and developed countless young musicians, guiding them toward artistic mastery and personal growth. Under his leadership, students have taken their talents from Memphis stages to national and international platforms, carrying forward the city’s soulful musical identity. His ability to connect classical precision with the emotional depth of gospel and soul has made him a bridge between musical generations.
As a composer, conductor, and arranger, Dr. Davis has written and produced music for choirs, orchestras, and special events across a range of styles — from gospel and jazz to symphonic and contemporary works. His versatility and deep understanding of musical theory and emotion have made him a sought-after collaborator and a respected leader in both performance and education.
Beyond his artistic achievements, Dr. Davis is equally revered as an educator and mentor. His decades of teaching have shaped the musical foundation of countless students who have gone on to pursue successful careers in performance, production, and education. His mentorship emphasizes not only technical excellence but also integrity, creativity, and discipline — encouraging each student to find their unique voice through music.
Deeply rooted in the Memphis community, Dr. Davis has dedicated his career to preserving and evolving the city’s world-renowned musical heritage. His work reflects the soul of Memphis — rich in history, steeped in emotion, and alive with innovation. Through his collaborations with local and national artists, music organizations, and educational programs, he has continued to champion unity, creativity, and purpose-driven artistry.
For over thirty years, Dr. Davis has remained steadfast in his mission to use music as a means of ministry, mentorship, and movement. His ability to uplift others through his gifts has made an enduring impact on both the cultural and spiritual landscape of the Mid-South.
With a career defined by service, excellence, and inspiration, Dr. Ashley K. Davis stands as a true leader and legend — one whose influence continues to echo through every note, every student, and every stage he touches. His recognition as a 2026 SCM Lifetime Achievement Award recipient honors not only his extraordinary career but also his unwavering dedication to the power of music to heal, teach, and transform lives.
