

That positive perspective helped nurture his success as a recording artist, actor, Broadway performer, and television personality.

Indeed, he never seemed to forsake his small town origins, thanks to that pleasant persona and an unpretentious attitude. Others echoed those comments, noting that Davis always seemed to have a knack for sharing his smile and making others feel like they were welcomed into his world. “Even though he wrote ‘In the Ghetto’ for Elvis and had so many incredible hits of his own, he made me feel like what I was doing mattered.” “He welcomed me into his home and turned that tremendous creative light on me,” Chesney reflected. Singer Kenny Chesney recalled how Davis took him under his wing when he was first starting out and continually encouraged him to pursue his craft.

McEntire’s sentiments seemed to sum up the feelings felt by many, fans and contemporaries alike. VIDEO: Mac Davis performs “In The Ghetto” 1972
