The Warwickshire native began his career as a drummer, filling in with his father's wedding band at the age of ten. By the time he was in his early teens, he'd added guitar and piano to his résumé, and he began uploading cover songs to YouTube and playing acoustic gigs in local pubs. He cites John Mayer and Ed Sheeran as influences, and his soulful delivery falls into a similar pop singer/songwriter style. After signing with Island in 2015, James delivered his debut EP, First Impressions, the following year. ~ Timothy Monger