James Singleton

Biography

James Singleton is an acclaimed acoustic bassist, composer, and producer, born in Chicago in 1955. He began playing bass at an early age and briefly attended the University of North Texas before moving to New Orleans in 1976 to join legendary bluesman Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown[2][6]. Immersed in the vibrant New Orleans scene, Singleton quickly established himself as one of the city's most sought-after bassists, performing with a wide array of jazz, blues, and experimental artists. His versatility and adventurous spirit led him to collaborate with icons such as Ellis Marsalis, James Booker, John Scofield, Chet Baker, and Natalie Cole, among many others[1][3][4].

Singleton is perhaps best known as a founding member of Astral Project, a modern jazz group he has played with since the late 1970s. The band is celebrated for its innovative approach, blending straight-ahead bop with the unique ambiance of New Orleans and embracing improvisation as 'composing in the groove'[1]. Singleton has also led several projects, including the James Singleton Orchestra and Trio, and participated in experimental ensembles featuring classical and electronic musicians[1][4]. His musical style is characterized by fearless improvisation, genre-blurring experimentation, and a deep commitment to keeping jazz radical and evolving[4].

Over four decades, Singleton's legacy has grown as a pillar of New Orleans music, both as a performer and as a mentor to younger musicians. He survived Hurricane Katrina, relocated briefly to Los Angeles, but ultimately returned to New Orleans, continuing to shape the city's musical landscape through his performances, recordings, and collaborations[1][4].

Fun Facts

• Singleton once performed nightly on Bourbon Street with Bobby McFerrin before McFerrin became internationally famous[4].
• He played with both traditional jazz legends and bounce music pioneers, including Katey Red and Big Freedia[4].
• Singleton survived Hurricane Katrina, relocated to Los Angeles, but ultimately returned to New Orleans to continue his career[1].
• He has performed with a modular synth player for the first time in his sixties, showcasing his openness to new musical experiences[4].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown - Early professional mentor; Singleton moved to New Orleans to join Brown's band (Live performances and touring) [1976]

Key Collaborators

• Ellis Marsalis - Frequent collaborator in New Orleans jazz scene (Live performances, recordings) [1970s-present]
• James Booker - Worked as accompanist and recording artist (Live performances, recordings) [1970s-1980s]
• Astral Project (Johnny Vidacovich, Tony Dagradi, Steve Masakowski) - Band member and co-founder (Albums such as 'Elvado', live shows) [late 1970s-present]
• John Scofield - Collaborated on performances (Live performances) [Various years]
• Chet Baker - Recorded together (Studio recordings) [Various years]
• Big Freedia - Performed together, crossing jazz and bounce genres (Live performances) [2000s-2010s]

Artists Influenced

• Justin Peake - Collaborated and mentored in experimental jazz and electronic projects (KLYPH project) [2010s]
• Cliff Hines - Worked together in electronic improvisation, influencing younger New Orleans musicians (KLYPH project) [2010s]

Discography

Top Tracks

1. New Orleans Mambo (Mystery Street)
2. Out da Box (Mystery Street)
3. Mystery Street (Mystery Street)
4. Little Joe / Carnival (Mystery Street)
5. Squeezin' (Mystery Street)
6. Skypager (Mystery Street)
7. Dr. Watson (Mystery Street)
8. Gentilly Lilly (Mystery Street)
9. Dr. Moon (Mystery Street)
10. The Arrival (Mystery Street)

External Links

• Spotify