NEWS: Veteran Guitarist JAMIE JAMES Returns with New Album “Straight Up” Out March 14

Renowned guitarist, singer, and songwriter Jamie James, celebrated for his work with Dennis Quaid & The Sharks, his long-time collaborations with the late Harry Dean Stanton, and as the frontman of the ‘80s rockabilly trio The Kingbees (“My Mistake“)—returns with a brand-new solo album, “Straight Up”.

Set for release on March 14, this record marks an exciting new chapter in James’ storied career, blending his signature rockabilly and rock influences with fresh, contemporary sounds.

Jamie James: A Rock & Roll Survivor

A veteran of the ever-evolving rock landscape, Jamie James has remained a key figure in rockabilly, rock, and Americana music.

Best known as the driving force behind The Kingbees—who made waves with the hit My Mistake—James went on to collaborate with Hollywood legend Harry Dean Stanton before forming Dennis Quaid & The Sharks.

Now, with Straight Up, he reunites with his long-time bandmates—Tom Walsh (drums), Ken Stange (organ), and Tom Mancillas (bass)—to deliver a compelling new collection of songs.

Marking 45 years since The Kingbees’ debut, “Straight Up” is a return to James’ roots while showcasing his evolution as an artist. The album’s lead single, Let The Praying Begin, offers a deeply personal reflection on love, redemption, and resilience.

“The music is unhurried, contemplative, providing an intentional vibe of directness, and while James is obviously a fan of Rock and Rockabilly, this may even carry a hint of the Blues. There’s also a seriousness and drama to the instrumentation that makes “Let The Praying Begin” far more than a introspective love song, and taps into a tradition along the lines of Johnny Cash… Drama forms the core of the song, and that’s supported by all of its musical aspects as well as its lyrics.”– Wildfire Music + News

Jamie James on the Song:

“I grew up in rock ‘n’ roll in the ‘60s—let’s just say I didn’t always live the life of a choirboy. But after a while, you find someone you truly love, and that feels better than anything. The song is about saying, if this relationship is wrong or a sin, or if this woman is too good for me, I’m not stopping, so go ahead and pray for me. In the end, the power of love makes us better.”

Jamie James on The Kingbees & His Musical Journey

“In 1978, I founded The Kingbees with Michael Rummans on bass and Rex Roberts on drums. Before that, I had toured internationally with a new version of Steppenwolf, but by 1979, I wanted to focus on a more stripped-down sound. Inspired by Buddy Holly, I sold my 1960 Les Paul to fund the band and kept my ‘57 Strat to chase that twangy tone I loved. Our debut album dropped in 1980 on RSO Records, earning us regional success with My Mistake.

Following The Kingbees, I spent nearly a decade making music with Harry Dean Stanton, who introduced me to new musical influences. By 2000, I co-founded Dennis Quaid & The Sharks, touring and recording for nearly two decades.

The pandemic gave me time to refocus. I started writing again, picked up the harmonica, and out of about 30 songs, I narrowed it down to 10 for Straight Up. It features my old bandmates from Dennis Quaid & The Sharks—Tom Walsh, Ken Stange, and Tom Mancillas—who helped bring these songs to life. I couldn’t be more excited to share this record with the world.”

Pre-Save ‘Straight Up” now!

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