Featured Artist: Izzy James

Izzy James grew up listening to Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Earth Wind & Fire. They all made significant statements regarding the "state of affairs" at that time. Those songs still resonate with him as does any message of Love, Peace and Hope. Growing up spiritually he now recognizes that he has a basic love for mankind that he refused to acknowledge in his youth.

His professional musical career started at the age of 12 as the lead vocalist of the group "James & The Soul Drivers". He was hanging out in clubs with people 5 years his elder, feeling comfortable in their company and their environment. He often tagged along with his idols of the time, a popular local band called "The Pirates". One of the most exciting nights of his young life was when they let his group play during their break at a CYO dance. From that point on Izzy James was in love with being on stage.

After high school graduation some of his musical friends went off to music school. Izzy James, however, took what he thought to be the most practical direction, studied marketing. Coming from an unstable, alcoholic, and violent home, a secure income was top priority. While attending college he studied electric bass with a local jazz guitarist and then a jazz bassist. Working with them Izzy got his theory and function of his instrument together. He went to school and work during the day then played in bands at local clubs at night. Eventually, he graduated to the "Show Band" circuit. These were highly rehearsed traveling groups playing in casino lounges and large clubs throughout the US. After a few years the novelty of show band life wore off. He was offered an opportunity to work less and make much more money without travel. Izzy James joined a wedding band and was able to write and practice Monday through Thursday and only work on the weekends.

During this period he had his closest brushes with commercial success. As the result of a demo submission, Warner Brothers records became interested in signing Izzy James, but eventually passed saying he sounded too much like a recently signed artist. Soon after this let down Izzy appeared on the national TV show "Star Search". His "wanna be" manager got him on the show with the understanding that he would win. Well, Izzy didn't. He came in second in a two man contest. Although he took pride in a good performance and guests outside the TV studio told him he got robbed, Izzy was crushed and completely depressed. From a musical standpoint he didn't recover until now. His new CD ‘Call To Conscience’ reflects his desire to leave his mark on society

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Izzy James - A Call To Conscience