James Black Jr
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James Black Jr

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Band Folk Singer/Songwriter

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Music

The best kept secret in music

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Discography

Snapshots (2011)(LP) - 200+ units sold independently

James' first album of solely original material. Employing a wide array of instrumentation, James explored many folk styles and arrangements. The single from the album titled 'For Better or Worse' is a bluegrass tinged, upbeat song about the trials and tribulations of marriage.

Ariss (2012)(LP) - not yet released

James' sophomore album 'Ariss' is a return to a more traditional folk style. With only guitar, harmonica and vocals on the album, it hearkens back to the 1960's folk revival era. James' influences shine through on many tracks, including his ode to Loudon Wainwright titled 'Song To Loudon' and the talking blues song, 'Talking Big Smoke'.

Unnamed (2012)(Digital Only EP) - not yet released

While finishing the recording of 'Ariss' James had some songs that didn't quite fit on the album due to time restrictions. These songs are being released (digital only) on an EP together in late 2012.

Photos

Feeling a bit camera shy

Bio

James Black Jr., an exciting local artist was born in London, Ontario. This gifted singer/guitarist embraces the folk genre. Influenced by such greats as Woody Guthrie, Phil Ochs, Bob Dylan and Loudon Wainwright III, James' music draws you back to the 1960's Folk Revival movement. James plays many original songs at his performances, as well as drawing on a large repertoire of folk standards and covers.

Snapshots, James' first album, is an independent production that was released on June 3, 2011. The release concert featured James as well as other local talent. James has been playing at various venues around London and Southwestern Ontario entertaining folks with his unique style and flavor. Snapshots was released both digitally and in hard copy to local music stores and online distributors. The album has currently sold over 200 copies.

James first picked up the guitar – his mother’s – at the age 6. His mother had studied acoustic guitar and she provided the instrument and the encouragement. James began playing folk and acoustic music at a young age. His experience in the London music scene provided him with many amazing contacts with other musicians – some of whom collaborated with James on Snapshots including Tara Dunphy of The Rizdales. James also plays harmonica on many of his recordings.

Recently James went into the studio to begin recording his next album. The album, titled 'Ariss' has a stripped down sound, with only acoustic guitar and harmonica being played along with vocals. The songs are the result of James' experiences this past Summer while on tour. Along with some songs that reflect the recent state of affairs both at home and abroad. The album explores more blues and folk sounds, and includes a humorous talking blues style song about Toronto titled, "Talking Big Smoke".

James Black Jr. is an exciting new artist with a keen sense of Canadiana. He is driven to share his music and talents with everyone. Come. Listen. Share. You’ll be glad you did.