What a story! Raised in Essex, James Hunter left school at age sixteen and began working for the railway. After busking on the streets of London for some time, Hunter formed a band called Howlin’ Wilf & the Vee Jays. They released their first album – Cry Wilf – in 1986.
During the 1990s, he frequented London’s live music venues, such as the famous 100 Club. It was also in the 1990s that he was recruited by Van Morrison to go on tour with him. Hunter performed backing vocals on two of Morrison’s albums: A Night In San Francisco and Days Like This. Subsequently, he opened for the likes of Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Willie Nelson, and Tom Petty.
He now spearheads ‘The James Hunter Six’, comprised of loyal band members Jonathan Lee (drums), Lee Badau (baritone saxophone), Damian Hand (tenor saxophone), Andrew Kingslow (keyboards/percussion), and Jason Wilson (bass).
This November, he will be performing at Under The Bridge in West London. The House That Soul Built reviewed Meshell Ndegeocello at the same venue as part of the Innervisions Festival. It has crisp, immaculate sound – perfect for some live blues and soul.
Hunter will be performing songs from his latest album, Whatever It Takes, released on Daptone Records. It has a vintage, analogue polish with Sam Cooke-era melodies. Listen below!
