James Auburn

Keyboards

James' self-exposed broad spectrum of influence has lent to his versatility and acclimation to an array of genres. Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi, James performed with the choir as a vocalist and accompanist, and gave several recitals. James served as Music Director at Center Stage and Gulfport Little Theater and as a pit musician at Saenger Theater. He received many awards from city and state competitions and was also a member of the local rock band Scoundrel.

James, a Berklee graduate, worked there as a pianist for the Voice Department and performed for a variety of student productions. James played in the band Mumbo Jumbo and was also active in Music Journalism, wrote as a Feature Editor for The Noise, and organizing and hosting The Limelight Records radio special on Harvard's WHRB. He also contributed articles on Gedup.com, an online Funk publication. James also served as a sub keys player for acclaimed jam band Hazie Maze.

In 1998, he was recruited as the Keyboardist, Music Director, and Co-Writer for the R&B;/Soul act LuvJones. During its tenure, the group met much success. Among many other gigs, they headlined a 9-11 Benefit at House of Blues (formerly in Cambridge, MA.) and opened for Amel Larrieux at The Big Easy in Boston. James has played at notable venues all over the East Coast and at several high profile private functions.

James is currently the keys player and Music Director of the R&B;/Soul/Hip-Hop outfit Velvet Stylus, and hooked up with the Outpost this Fall. He is also an avid record collector and Hip-Hop historian.

Photo: Dana Wolfe