James Southwell was a finalist in the 2014 & 2015 Memphis Blues Challenge.
Over the past 11 years James has firmly established his credentials as one of Australia's leading blues/rock/funk performers, constantly playing at the top of the bill at almost all music and blues festivals throughout Australia and New Zealand.
James Southwell commands the stage like few others, with powering riffs and vocals that bite. James and his incredible band are truly world class and would not be out of place on any stage anywhere. James is not afraid to push his music past all previously existing boundaries and well past what most musicians consider the limits of what is safe. His music comes from a deep love of the blues with heavy inspirational funk and rock & roll influences. This band will capture your attention and you will be totally engrossed as James projects himself off the stage and through you with his music.
James has been a constant fixture on the Australian music and Blues Scene since 2006 when he hit the ground running with the release of his first Album “Dark Angel” (Produced by Aussie Guitar Legend Kevin Borich)
James has played over 2000 shows since the release of his first album "Dark Angel" in 2006 including many festival appearances. 3 X Blues on Broadbeach, Headline act in 2008), 2 X Thredbo Blues Festival, Headline act in 2009/17), Blues at Bridgetown), 3 X Yass Heritage Festival) 2 X Canberra Festival) The Australian Blues Music Festival), The Gympie Muster 2008) Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival (NZ), Headline act in 2008), 3 X Sydney Blues & Roots Festival, Headline act in 2014), The Great Southern Blues Festival Narooma 2009).
When James is not playing the Blues in his own band he plays guitar and tours with Angry Anderson on a regular basis and has also played for Stevie Wright, Kate DeAraugo, Swanee (John Swan), and many others.
James also has an incredibly powerful solo show, that he tours constantly when he is not playing band shows, the solo show is also a very popular add on for festivals, this gives festivals the option of adding an extra and diverse act to the bill without bringing in more personnel.
James’ early influences were Phil Manning, George Harrison, Kevin Borich, and Geoff Achison. James’ professionalism, reliability, and always being on time, plus his ability to read his audience, have assured return bookings throughout Australia and New Zealand whether playing at a music festival or venue. James still plays at the first venue that ever gave him an opportunity back in 2006. TICKETS
