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Jose James Jose James is an American vocalist known for his eclectic style that blends jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and electronica. Born on January 20, 1978, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, James grew up surrounded by music and began singing at an early age. He studied jazz at The New School in New York City, where he honed his skills and developed his unique sound. James' music is characterized by its soulful vocals, introspective lyrics, and genre-blurring compositions. He cites artists like John Coltrane, Marvin Gaye, and Billie Holiday as influences, and his music reflects a deep appreciation for both the jazz tradition and contemporary R&B and hip-hop. James gained recognition in the late 2000s with the release of his debut album, "The Dreamer" (2008), which received critical acclaim and established him as a rising star in the jazz world. He followed up with several more albums, including "Blackmagic" (2010) and "No Beginning No End" (2013), which further showcased his eclectic style and innovative approach to music. In addition to his solo work, James has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres, including Flying Lotus, Christian Scott, and Takuya Kuroda. He is known for his dynamic live performances, which often feature a mix of original compositions and reimagined covers that showcase his versatile voice and unique musical vision. James' influence on the jazz world extends beyond his music, as he has been praised for his ability to bring new audiences to the genre and push the boundaries of what is considered jazz. With his soulful voice, genre-defying sound, and innovative approach to music, Jose James continues to be a driving force in contemporary jazz.