James Hunter • July 24 • 7:30 PM • Free

Over the span of 30 years, James Hunter has worked on the railway, busked in the streets of London, provided backup vocals and guitar for Van Morrison, played clubs and theaters all over the world, written scores of original songs, and recorded some of the most original and honest rhythm & soul albums of the last two decades.

 

At age 16, Hunter left school in Colchester, Essex and began working for the railway, while honing his blues guitar and singing skills.  Six years later, he played his first paid gig at the Colchester Labour club (as “Howlin’ Wilf and the Vee-Jays”).  In the decades since, James Hunter has gone from singer/songwriter to labourer and back again.  After releasing one album in 1986, Hunter and his band became a popular fixture on the UK club circuit and radio waves.  His gritty, soulful voice has matured well along with his musicianship and song writing.

In the early 90’s, Van Morrison recruited Hunter to sing backup on the road touring and on two albums, A Night in San Francisco and Days Like This. In the years to follow, Hunter opened shows for Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Willie Nelson, and Tom Petty, and headlined clubs and theatres in England, Europe, Australia and the United States.