José James, a jazz artist for the hip-hop generation, has redefined contemporary jazz by seamlessly blending genres like soul, funk, house, and rock. His rich baritone voice draws inspiration from icons such as John Coltrane, Marvin Gaye, and Billie Holiday, while also reflecting influences from 1970s soul-jazz legends like Terry Callier and Gil Scott-Heron. With a discography that spans projects with diverse collaborators including Flying Lotus, Robert Glasper, and Erykah Badu, James has established his own label, Rainbow Blonde Records, releasing acclaimed albums like No Beginning No End 2 (2020) and 1978 (2024).

Originally from Minnesota, José James honed his musical talents in Minneapolis before gaining international acclaim for his debut album, Dreamer. Under the mentorship of Gilles Peterson, James signed with Brownswood and later Blue Note, where he released critically acclaimed albums like No Beginning No End. His versatile sound, influenced by jazz, electronic, soul, and pop, has earned him accolades worldwide and led to collaborations with renowned artists like Pino Palladino and Jason Moran. With a dedication to honoring musical legends like Billie Holiday and Bill Withers, James continues to push boundaries with each new project, showcasing his evolving artistry and diverse influences.