Chris James

A singer, guitarist and harmonica player that can draw the audience in with emotional ballads or get them moving with kickin' acoustic rock. James has a rich vocal style and strong guitar chops, delivering his well-crafted songs with confidence and heart.
Although mostly performing originals, he has a vast catalog of classic hit songs that he pull out as crowd-pleasers whenever the moment strikes.

Chris James pours grit, emotion and autobiographical experience into his music that is reminiscent of 70’s folk rock and Americana singer-songwriters. Influenced by his rural Maine roots, James takes an honest, no frills approach to the craft, and digs in to tug at the heart strings with lush chord changes and lyrical intensity. His new acoustic EP ‘Heartburn’ is due to be released this year (2017) with songs that reverberate James’ emotional and rootsy style. There are also some solo tour dates in the works...

In his early days, Chris James was a budding songwriter, writing and performing acoustic songs at campfire outings, parties, and coffee houses in and around the Portland Maine area. Gaining confidence as a performer, he realized that he would have to look to larger cities to become more widely recognized and ventured to San Francisco with not much more than a guitar in tow. Shortly after arriving and weathering the culture shock he formed the rock band Small Change Romeos. After just a few years, the band had built a fairly large Bay Area following and were known for their diverse sound and eclectic but heartfelt songwriting, often ranging from alt rock to heavy country to reggae and blues. They have a new record releasing this year as well.

James also released two solo albums as Chris James & The Showdowns, a more laid back and acoustic version of The Romeos. Songs from his records have been used in TV commercial promos and are still played in rotation on SIRIUS XM Radio and various stations throughout California. James has performed hundreds of live shows in the past few years as a solo artist and also with The Romeos and Showdowns.

Chris continues to perform and record regularly and has of late set himself in a producer and engineer role, working with other bands, as well as his own projects in the studio in order to get the 'magic on tape'.

--"James is as captivating a performer as I have seen in some time. His songs are well crafted, his energy on stage is contagious, and the truth in his lyrics is undeniable.” -Ralph Graceffa (Singer Songwriter)

--"Chris is a singer-songwriter with an honest approach and style that really speaks to everyday people..." - J. Bowman (Lead Guitarist for Michael Franti & Spearhead)

--"James' style of writing is hard to deny as it rings of times and life situations we can all relate to. It's nice to see an artist and band like the Showdowns hold true to Americana roots while still giving you a rock and roll kick in the ass!" -Starita (President of the San Francisco Recording Academy Chapter)

Can provide almost all equipment needed depending on size and scope of the event. Contact for more info.