James is recognized internationallly for his ability to grace the stage and play with such anointing using his smooth picking. Born in Saginaw,Michigan, as the son of Elvin M.Owens,Pastor of Grace Church of God In Christ, he began playing lead guitar at his father's church. James' mother, believed music plays a big part of the church and allowed their child to flourish under their tutelage. At the age of 13 his mother, Evangelist Earline Owens, prayed for and anointed his hands.James grew up performing with his family group, The Grace Gospel Singers. He wasa instrumental in forming a quartet group with his brother Louis and a few friends, called The Chosen Sons. When his sister Evelyn joined them, the name changed to The Chosen Sons and Daughter. They released their first album titled "Look Within" in 2001.
While a senior in high school, James gained many state-wide honors and was awarded the national Music-Fest Jazz Award in Philedelphia. This nationally recognized accomplishment allowed him to participate in the international jazz festival in Jamaica under direction of Mr. Derek Shelton. In 1997, James joined "The Wiseguys" playing behind the Rockin' Gospel Blues styling of Sharrie Williams. By 1998 they were traveling to Europe and performed dozens of shows in Holland, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden,Switzerland, Canada, and Great Britain for many years.He arranged the music for many of her original hits. James has always had a love for gospel music.He has played and recorded with the Georgia Mass Chior in 2005 and Kentucky Jurisdictional Mass Chior in 2008 and Nu Tradition. James currently Stephanie Mills and Angie Stone while continuing to work with Deitrick Haddon.
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