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Christopher James is an original musician, songwriter, and performer. In 2000 the Christopher James Band won the Baltimore Blues Society’s competition for Best Band in Baltimore. The Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee chose James’ group as finalists in the International Blues Challenge in 2001 (that’s one out of eight in the world.)
His current project reaches far beyond the boundaries of the contemporary blues scene. Diverse influences including Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Mississippi John Hurt, Hank Williams, and Bob Dylan are pulled together in his playing to create something which James calls simply ”good music.” His philosophy draws from the roots of jazz in that he creates new music out of all the material of the old to make the music that he hears himself.
James’ skill as a guitarist is apparent as he uses many techniques to bring depth and fullness to his songs often leaving audiences amazed that all that music is coming from just two hands. He constantly pushes boundaries reaching for an expression of the energy and spirit that fill his music.
 James’ voice combines the abandon of a young Elvis Presley with the passion of Son House singing as if each note might be the last.
And the songs! Of all his qualities James’ song writing is the hardest to categorize because it is so diverse. His lyrics often have many levels of meanings and songs grow richer each time you hear them. What ties it all together is a warmth and earthiness. This music would be equally at home in a concert hall or on a back porch.
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