Biography
Though long admired as a guitarist within Louisiana circles, James never gained recognition farther afield and showed little interest in building a profile as a frontman. During the closing years of the 1960s he cut a handful of solo sides whose low, half-spoken vocals, spidery blues-inflected guitar lines, and straightforward R&B/pop rhythms recalled the approach of Tony Joe White on “Polk Salad Annie.” Preferring the role of supporting musician, he lent his playing to regional singles by Tommy McLain, Rockin’ Sidney, and other local acts rather than chasing opportunities as a vocalist. After the early 1970s his studio activity dwindled, yet a 1996 import anthology eventually gathered both his solo recordings and his sideman contributions.
Albums