Hi, I'm Izzy James
I grew up listening to Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Earth Wind & Fire. They all made significant statements regarding the "state of affairs" at that time. Those songs still resonate with me as does any message of Love, Peace and Hope. I've begun to "grow up" spiritually and I now recognize that I have a basic love for mankind that I refused to acknowledge in my youth.
I began my professional musical career at age 12 as the lead vocalist of the group "James & The Soul Drivers". I was hanging out in clubs with people 5 years my elder, feeling comfortable in their company and their environment. I often tagged along with my idols, a popular local band called "The Pirates". One of the most exciting nights of my young life was when they let us play during their break at a CYO dance. From that point on I was in love with being on stage.
After high school graduation some of my musical friends went off to music school. I, however, took what I thought to be the most practical direction, studied marketing. I wanted to make money! Coming from an unstable, alcoholic, and violent home, a secure income was top priority. While attending college I studied electric bass with a local jazz guitarist and then a jazz bassist. Working with them I got my theory and function of my instrument together. I went to school and work during the day then played in bands at local clubs at night. Eventually, I graduated to the "Show Band" circuit. These were highly rehearsed traveling groups playing in casino lounges and large clubs throughout the US. After a few years the novelty of show band life wore off. I was offered an opportunity to work less and make much more money without travel. I joined a wedding band. I was able to write and practice Monday through Thursday and only work on the weekends. I was making a full time salary working part time.
During this period I had my closest brushes with commercial success. As the result of a demo submission, Warner Brothers records became interested in signing me, but eventually passed saying I sounded too much like a recently signed artist. Soon after this let down I appeared on the national TV show "Star Search". My "wanna be" manager got me on the show with the understanding that I would win 
. Well, I didn't. I came in second in a two man contest. At the end of my performance when Ed Mc Mahon read the scores I was in such a daze that I didn't know if I had won or lost. Someone had to lead me off the stage. Although I took pride in a good performance (my voice had been cracking in the green room) and guests outside the TV studio told me I got robbed, I was crushed and completely depressed. From a musical standpoint I didn't recover until now.
I've always known I didn't want to leave the planet without making my mark. This CD is my first mark.