Music is passion for singer/songwriter Joseph James.
He still remembers his first professional recording of a novelty song played on morning radio talk shows. He recalls driving to Flint just so he could pick up reception of the first station that played his music and all the trips to Tennessee to work with some of the best country musicians in the United States.
But Michigan is home to James, and he wants to share his tunes will all who will listen. Clarkston residents will have a chance to hear James live as the Clarkston Village Players present a single concert on April 8.
James, an Oakland Township resident, has played music for over 30 years and describes his style as country with a flavor of pop.
Though James played throughout his life, his music became half of what he calls his ‘two-track career.?
‘I was a music guy who went to college and got a degree in finance,? James said.
After graduating from Wayne State University, James found success as a financial advisor, and over time he returned to playing music more frequently.
James made several trips to Nashville. He said he was fortunate to work with amazing studio artists to help him release his own albums.
Despite encouraging airtime and music sales, James said he had difficulty getting signed by a professional label, but attributes the challenge to most record labels looking for young pop stars.
‘I’m not afraid to say I’m 52,? James said.
Thanks to modern technology however, James marketed his own music, and his last single, ‘Christmas in my Hometown? received extensive airplay on satellite radio and reached #1 in Ireland.
The show marks James return to the Depot Theater after two years. James said he really enjoyed his last Clarkston performance because of the theater’s atmosphere.
‘It’s a nice place to do a show… because it’s very intimate,? James said. ‘This place, with 100 people… I talk a little more, goof around, tell a story or two… It’s a great place to do it because it’s kind of a little gem you have here in Clarkston. When they asked me to do it again, I said ‘Absolutely,? because it was a lot of fun doing it last time.?
James will be joined by local musicians Mike Duncan and Mike Winfield, who will provide backup for James? own guitar. The trio will play 16-18 songs, most of which are original works by James.
For those who cannot make the show, James? music is available for download through popular services such as iTunes Music Store and his albums are available through his Web site, www.joseph-james.com
James will perform one night only at Depot Theater. His performance begins at 8 p.m. and is expected to last approximately two hours. Tickets cost $12 each.
Tickets are available for purchase through www.clarkstonvillageplayers.org or by calling 248-625-2511. They are also available by leaving a message on the Clarkston Village Players ticket line at 248-625-8811. Tickets may be purchased at the door the night of the performance; however, availability can not be assured.