Hailing from the northern California town of Paradise, Brockton James grew up in a show-business oriented family. His grandmother acted in early silent films, and his mother was a vocalist and actress in musicals and operas. His father, also a vocalist, directed many musicals.

A multi-instrumentalist since early childhood, James became involved with many musical activities throughout his school years, including marching band and jazz singing. During high school, he played the electric bass with the school jazz band, which appeared at many events, including opening for jazz greats Maynard Ferguson and Buddy Rich. They also performed at the Disneyland 25th anniversary celebration in June of 1980.

James recorded his first record, a three-song E.P. in Sacramento, California, in 1983. Since then, he has been involved with numerous recording projects, not only on his own behalf, but for other artists as well.

James also has the gift of comedy! He has composed, produced and performed on songs featured on the nationally-syndicated radio program, "The Dr. Demento Show," one of which, a Christmas novelty tune, appeared on the CD, "Holidays in Dementia," released by Rhino Records in 1995.

James is well versed in "behind-the-scenes" activities as well. Possessing a thorough knowledge of audio equipment, he co-owned a concert sound reinforcement company while still in High School, and received a degree in Electronic Technology in 1984. Since then, he has worked at (and set up) recording studios, engineered live events and has worked in radio-broadcasting and advertising. He has also produced and engineered projects for other artists, and has assisted them in their promotional efforts.

Presently, James operates a private recording studio, and teaches guitar, bass, saxophone and music theory. He is also writing a comprehensive book for recording studio "novices," entitled, "Making Tracks: A Musician's Guide to Effective Recording," which will include home studio recording, music production techniques, basic audio engineering, etc. He was also a contributor to the (now defunct) magazine, "Mixdown," and is the former theatre reviewer for his hometown newspaper, The Paradise Post. Presently, he writes music-related magazine and book reviews for The Small Press Review.

James is a writer affiliate of Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) and is a member of The International Society for Music Education. In his "non-musical" life, James co-owns a website design and hosting company, and personally manages several websites for clients ranging from publishing companies to professional services. In his spare time, he enjoys practicing Tai Chi and Chi Gong, kite flying, collecting art and Beatles memorabilia.

James can be reached by writing to: P.O. Box 656, Paradise CA 95967, USA, or by e-mail, at: brocktonjames@yahoo.com His message phone is: 1 (530) 877-9682.

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