Brandon James is a Chicago based powerhouse vocalist that is not only sultry, but grips you with waves of raw emotions featuring a contemporary soul and R&B Pop sound. Exposing you to tingles of both Stevie Wonder & John Legend, he leaves his own mark with unforgettable performances at venues such as UIC Pavilion, House of Blues, Reggies and HVAC where he’s opened up for acts such as Ryan Leslie, Method Man, Ghost Face, Bubba Sparks & the iconic Earth Wind & Fire.  

I began playing music at 17 years old through the Whitney Young High School guitar program. I was captivated by the instrument and blues music, determined to gain musical knowledge and experience. In college I studied classical Spanish guitar and big band jazz but remained drawn towards the sounds of the electric guitar, and the playing of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmy Page, and Joe Bonamassa. PERFORMANCE At 20 I started street performing in the underground subway stations and on the streets of downtown Chicago. My time there showed me how to truly play and feel the blues, how to improvise, and how to connect with listeners. I hope to combine all that I have learned as a professional guitarist and street musician into creating expressive and passionate music, and putting on awesome modern blues performances.