James is a singer-songwriter, producer, and educator originally from the West Midlands, now based in Essex and London. Deeply influenced by a DIY ethos, James recorded his debut EP Normal People entirely on cassette tape in 2023, capturing a lo-fi, raw aesthetic that reflects his passion for authentic sound.

He has independently released six singles and one EP through his own label, Broken Leg Records. James also produces his own music videos, including a stop-motion animated video for his debut single Circles, in 2020. That track received support from BBC Introducing, and he has since performed at Glastonbury Festival in both 2023 and 2024—career highlights to date.

From 2017 to 2024, James was a founding member of the London band Pynch. During this time, he performed across the UK and Europe, supporting acts such as The Libertines. He played guitar on the band’s Speedy Underground single Disco Lights, produced by Dan Carey, and contributed to their debut album Howling at a Concrete Moon, released in 2023. His work with the band also included collaborating with Gordon Raphael, producer of The Strokes.

Alongside his creative practice, James is an experienced music educator with over a decade of teaching experience. He is currently the Head of the School of Music Production at ICMP, having previously served as Associate Dean of Music Production at BIMM University. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and holds a BA in Music Technology and Popular Music as well as an MA in Songwriting. James is dedicated to fostering creativity in others and helping students develop their artistic voice.

His musical influences include Mac DeMarco, Laura Marling, and, in particular, Paul McCartney. In March 2023, James presented a paper on McCartney’s DIY approach at the International Beatles Symposium at Liverpool Hope University.