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"Room 203" By Natasha James Holding At #1
The perfect Tex-Mex-flavored song about "needing a little love in my heart" on a lazy Summer afternoon has apparently hit a resonant chord with radio programmers: "Room 203," from Natasha James' soon-to-be-released album "My Country Has The Blues," is in its second week at Number 1 on the influential New Music Weekly Country Top 30 Indie Chart (see below). "Room 203" continues to hold steady at #5 on the NMW Country Main Chart and #3 on the California Roots Music Report (#11 on International RMR Chart). As if that isn't enough, Natasha's 2009 album "Tequila Time" is holding steady at #17 on the RMR Internet Chart.
Purchase "Room 203" or any of the seven tracks on "My Country Has The Blues" here: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/natashajames16.
James will take to the road this summer as part of the "Music for Veterans" Tour, along with other selected concert dates.
Read recent features on James in L.A. MUSIC EXAMINER; L.A. VALLEY SCENE MAGAZINE ; ALL ACCESS MAGAZINE.
"The catchy If You Think This Is Love, I Dont Care and Somebody Just Blew It provide further evidence of just what James can do, with a voice vaguely sometimes reminiscent of such country great as Loretta Lynn or blues babe Bonnie Raitt." Will Phoenix, LOS ANGELES EXAMINER
"Natasha James is an American troubadour in the purest sense of the word. The Sonoma, California-based singer-songwriter emotes from her soul and approaches her material with an authenticity and grit that harbors no pretense or fabrication. She speaks the truth and her songs are vibrant and illustrious stories that are as compelling as those of Woody Guthrie, Lucinda Williams or Gram Parsons, of whom she is often compared." Eric Harbadashian, MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE
Current News
Natasha James "Room 203" Hits #1 On New Music Weekly Chart
May 19, 2012
The perfect Tex-Mex-flavored song about "needing a little love in my heart" on a lazy Summer afternoon has apparently hit a resonant chord with radio programmers: "Room 203," from Natasha James' soon-to-be-released album "My Country Has The Blues," is in its second week at Number 1 on the influential New Music Weekly Country Top 30 Indie Chart . "Room 203" continues to hold steady at #5 on the NMW Country Main Chart and #3 on the California Roots Music Report (#11 on International RMR Chart). As if that isn't enough, Natasha's 2009 album "Tequila Time" is holding steady at #17 on the RMR Internet Chart.
What the critics are saying at Natasha James -
The catchy If You Think This Is Love, I Dont Care and Somebody Just Blew It provide further evidence of just what James can do, with a voice vaguely sometimes reminiscent of such country great as Loretta Lynn or blues babe Bonnie Raitt Will Phoenix, LOS ANGELES EXAMINER
Natasha James is an American troubadour in the purest sense of the word. The Sonoma, California-based singer-songwriter emotes from her soul and approaches her material with an authenticity and grit that harbors no pretense or fabrication. She speaks the truth and her songs are vibrant and illustrious stories that are as compelling as those of Woody Guthrie, Lucinda Williams or Gram Parsons, of whom she is often compared. Eric Harbadashian, MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE
More Big News from Americana/Roots artist Natasha James
April 26, 2012
More Big News from Americana/Roots artist Natasha James: "My Country Has The Blues" CD jettisoned to #6 on the California Roots Music Report, and is #18 on the Roots Music Report, while "Room 203" hit #7 on the New Music Weekly Country Chart. James has just been added to the big summer "Music For Veterans" Tour. Her catchy Southern anthem "NASCAR Time," has also just hit radio. "Music For Veterans" Tour info at www.grawinc.com.
(NASHVILLE) - Americana/Roots artist and multiple award winner Natasha James has been added to the quickly-growing lineup of top-name music acts donating their time and talent to the star-studded "Music For Veterans" Tour this Summer presented by respected Nashville agency, Graw Management & Entertainment, with whom James recently signed. More "Music For Veterans" Tour details to follow.
"The catchy "If You Think This Is Love," "I Don't Care" and "Somebody Just Blew It" provide further evidence of just what James can do, with a voice vaguely sometimes reminiscent of such country great as Loretta Lynn or blues babe Bonnie Raitt." LOS ANGELES EXAMINER
"Natasha James is an American troubadour in the purest sense of the word. The Sonoma, California-based singer-songwriter emotes from her soul and approaches her material with an authenticity and grit that harbors no pretense or fabrication. She speaks the truth and her songs are vibrant and illustrious stories that are as compelling as those of Woody Guthrie, Lucinda Williams or Gram Parsons, of whom she is often compared." MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE
James' latest single "NASCAR Time," is a timely Southern Rock anthem a la Lynyrd Skynyrd. "NASCAR Time" features Natasha James and Tommy Thompson (of the great Gregg Allman band) as a duet on vocals, with a driving Southern Rock track that is being considered for licensing abroad as a line dance single. Hear it here: http://airplaydirect.com/music/whpcompilationvol131/.
Both "NASCAR Time" and "Room 203" are available on an Advance Edition EP of My Country Has The Blues, available on CD Baby: http://www.cdbaby.com/artist/natashajames1.
Read recent features on James in L.A. MUSIC EXAMINER; L.A. VALLEY SCENE MAGAZINE ; ALL ACCESS MAGAZINE. Also check out an interview Natasha recently did with ROCK OVER AMERICA magazine, here.
Natasha James Added To "Music For Veterans" Tour
April 25, 2012
Americana/Roots artist and multiple award winner Natasha James has been added to the quickly-growing lineup of top-name music acts donating their time and talent to the star-studded "Music For Veterans" Tour this Summer presented by respected Nashville agency, Graw Management & Entertainment, with whom James recently signed. More "Music For Veterans" Tour details to follow.
Natasha James Debuts "NASCAR Time"
March 22 , 2012
"NASCAR Time," the latest single from Natasha James, makes its' radio debut today on Fishing Country Now. A timely Southern Rock anthem a la Lynyrd Skynyrd, "NASCAR Time" features Natasha James and Tommy Thompson (of the great Gregg Allman band) as a duet on vocals, with a driving - no pun intended - Southern Rock track.
James was interviewed live Thursday, March 22 at 1 p.m. PST) by the Fishing Country Now Radio Network. "NASCAR Time" is debuting on their stations as well as Young Country TV. "NASCAR Time" is presently spinning at Discount Tires in Nashville and is being considered for licensing abroad as a line dance single. "Room 203," the follow-up single to MCHTB, is steadily climbing the charts and currently at #21 on the NEW MUSIC WEEKLY Country Charts. The song is described by James as a "a straight-up country tune with a Jimmy Buffet feel..a catchy chorus with Tex-Mex guitar licks and a humorous twist."
I drank last night so I'd forget the past
It didn't work - all I got was trashed
I feel like hell and now I'm outta cash
And I need a little love for my heart
Natasha James' "My Country Has the Blues" Video Picked Up By Microsoft
March 8 , 2012 by Dan Harr
With Microsoft adding the video for "My Country Has the Blues" to its Windows Media Guide online site, the title track from Americana/Roots artist Natasha James' forthcoming album is a hit on multi-media platforms. MCHTB not only rapidly ascended to #1 on the New Music Weekly Country Music Charts; it was recently nominated for "Country Single Of the Year" for the 2012 Los Angeles Music Awards.
The Microsoft Windows Media Guide site is a high-profile online destination to discovering what's new and hot with the biggest names in music, movies, TV, and Internet radio.
Purchase a Limited Advance Edition of "My Country Has The Blues" at CD Baby here.
"Room 203," the follow-up single to MCHTB, is steadily climbing the charts and currently at #29 . The song is a country-melodic ode to unrequited love, where James sings in a longing, yet knowing, voice:
Cause I'm sitting here in Room 203, Who knows tomorrow just where I'll be, Gonna find another love for my heart
"Room 203" is described by James as a "straight-up country tune with a Jimmy Buffet feel, catchy chorus and Tex-Mex guitar licks" and has quickly gathered worldwide radio interest, spinning in Sweden, U.K., Australia, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, France, Japan, and many more. Listen to the entire song here: AirPlayDirect.com/whpcompilationvol128.
MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE: "Recorded by Ronnie Rivera (Lisa Marie Presely) and Stephen Hart (White Stripes, Neville Brothers, John Lee Hooker) at The Site Recording in Marin County and mastered by multiple Grammy winner David Reitzas (Barbara Streisand, Barry Manilow) at Westlake Studios in Los Angeles, "My Country Has The Blues" is a timely anthem for what is happening all around us in our country, a catchy tune with James' unique Americana blend of country, blues, roots, and rock."
Natasha James: New Video, New Single, Up The Charts Again
With the title track, "My Country Has the Blues," zooming up to #1 on the New Music Weekly Country Music Charts as it did last month, and a stunning and stirring video set to its music now out (watch video here), the follow-up single, "Room 203," is ascending the charts to a chorus of expectation that now seems to follow with every new release from prolific Americana songwriter, Natasha James.
Recorded at famed facility The Site Recording in Marin, "Room 203" is a country-melodic ode to unrequited love, where James sings in a longing, yet knowing, voice:
Cause I'm sitting here in Room 203,
Who knows tomorrow just where I'll be,
Gonna find another love for my heart
“Room 203” is described by James as a "straight-up country tune with a Jimmy Buffet feel, catchy chorus and Tex-Mex guitar licks" and has quickly gathered worldwide radio interest, spinning in Sweden, U.K., Australia, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, France, Japan, and many more. Listen to the entire song here: AirPlayDirect.com/whpcompilationvol128.
My Country Has the Blues - which is nominated for “Country Single of the Year” for the 2012 (22nd Annual) Los Angeles Music Awards - is set to drop later this Spring.
Click here to read the entire story >
Room 203, Follow-Up To My Country Has The Blues, Rising On The Charts
February 28 , 2012 by JaimieWard
Read an in-depth feature/interview on Natasha in the new issue of All Access Magazine here.
"Room 203" By Natasha James Released To Radio and Spinning Worldwide
Posted on January 12, 2012 by Dan Harr
Award-winning Americana/Roots artist Natasha James has released her latest single "Room 203" to radio. The song - described by James as a "straight-up country tune with a Jimmy Buffet feel, catchy chorus and Tex-Mex guitar licks" - is the follow-up to "My Country Has The Blues," a stirring ballad that went all the way to #1 on the New Music Weekly/STS Country Main Chart. "Room 203" has quickly gathered worldwide radio interest, spinning in Sweden, U.K., Australia, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, France, Japan, and many more. Listen to the entire song here: AirPlayDirect.com/whpcompilationvol128.
Read recent feature interviews with James in the Los Angeles Examiner and the Los Angeles Valley Scene Magazine.
Natasha James won 2009 Los Angeles Music Awards "Country Album of the Year" for Tequila Time and 2010 LAMA's "Producers Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year." In 2009 James won the prestigious "AC New Artist" award from New Music Weekly, and a "Top 100 Artists" nod from magazine industry heavyweight, Music Connection.
Natasha James' My Country Has the Blues Hits #1
"My Country Has The Blues" By Americana Artist Natasha James Goes To #1 On The Country Music Main Chart!
(LOS ANGELES) - "My Country Has the Blues," a stirring ballad by respected Americana/Roots artist Natasha James, has gone to #1 on the New Music Weekly/STS Country Main Chart.
James is up for consideration for two 2012 Grammy nominations - "Best Country Song" for "My Country Has The Blues;" and "Best New Artist." Grammy members can go to www.grammy365.com to vote.
In "My Country Has the Blues," James once again shows us she has her finger on the pulse of the human condition, with lyrics as insightful as they are timely and universal, and married to an infectious musical track guaranteed to have you singing along, with the words running in your head long after the song has ended.
Natasha James won 2009 Los Angeles Music Awards "Country Album of the Year" for Tequila Time and 2010 LAMA's "Producers Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year." In 2009 James won the prestigious "AC New Artist" award from New Music Weekly, and a "Top 100 Artists" nod from magazine industry heavyweight, Music Connection. Tequila Time is still #1 on the respectable Roots Music Chart, and has been now for an incredible six-month period of time!
Natasha James Hits #7 On The New Music Weekly Chart
Currently #7 On The New Music Weekly Chart, Award-Winning Americana/Country Artist NATASHA JAMES Is Riding High With Her Stirring New Ode To America, "MY COUNTRY HAS THE BLUES"
Americana/Country artist Natasha James' stirring new "My Country Has The Blues" single is at #7 and rapidly rising on the influential New Music Weekly Country Charts.
James - who headlined the 2011 Mountain View Art & Wine Festival's KFOX Classic Rock Stage earlier this month - will perform material from her award-winning "Tequila Time" album as well as from her forthcoming CD, "My Country Has The Blues," (Highway One Records/WHP), whose self-titled, politically and socially-charged title track became the #1 Most Added Single to Radio shortly after its July 1 release. Music News Nashville profiled James in a Cover Story ("Natasha James - An American Troubadour") this past June, while "Tequila Time" has been at #1 on the respected Roots Music Report Chart for over five months.
Recorded by Ronnie Rivera (Madonna, Lisa Marie Presely) and Stephen Hart (White Stripes, Neville Brothers, John Lee Hooker) at The Site Recording in Marin County and mastered by multiple Grammy winner David Reitzas (Barbara Streisand, Barry Manilow) at Westlake Studios in Los Angeles, "My Country Has The Blues" is a timely anthem for what is happening all around us in our country, a catchy tune with James' unique Americana blend of country, blues, roots, and rock.
Natasha James Performing At Mountain View Art & Wine Festival September 10
Americana/Country artist Natasha James headlines on the KFOX Classic Rock Stage at the 2011 Mountain View Art & Wine Festival, Castro St., Civic Center Plaza, Mountain View, Saturday, September 10. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Info: (650) 968-8378 or www.miramarevents.com/mountainview/music.html.
James will perform material from her award-winning "Tequila Time" album as well as from her forthcoming CD, "My Country Has The Blues," (Highway One Records/WHP), whose self-titled, politically and socially-charged title track became the #1 Most Added Single to Radio shortly after its July 1 release and which is currently at #37 on the Country Main Chart (STS).
Music News Nashville profiled James in a Cover Story ("Natasha James - An American Troubadour") this past June, while "Tequila Time" has been at #1 on the respected Roots Music Report Roots Country Internet Chart for over four months. James' previous CD, "Bad Judgements," is at #8 on the RMR chart, giving her two albums currently in the Top Ten.
Produced in conjunction with Stephen Hart (White Stripes, Neville Brothers, John Lee Hooker) at The Site Recording in Marin County, engineered by Ronnie Rivera, and mastered by multiple Grammy winner David Reitzas (Barbara Streisand, Barry Manilow) at Westlake Studios in Los Angeles, "My Country Has The Blues" is a timely anthem for what is happening all around us in our country, a catchy tune with James' unique Americana blend of country, blues, roots, and rock.
NATASHA JAMES SET TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE "MY COUNTRY HAS THE BLUES"
"Tequila Time is a very strong band playing music.a group of solid songs and sung by a lady with a message. That message is delivered by one of the best California troubadours to come from the West Coast in years. Laid back vocals throughout gives a feel that she could have come from just down the road. The spirit of Gram Parsons lives on in California music. A laid back, feel-good listen." – Jerry Henry - PLANET WEEKLY
Natasha James Interviewed Live Over KSVY 91.3 FM/Thursday, April 28@8:05 A.M.; Premiere Airing Of "My Country Has the Blues" In Advance Of It's Radio Release Date!!
(SONOMA, CA) - Natasha James, one of the most compelling artists in the world of Americana/Roots/ Country music, returns with "MY COUNTRY HAS THE BLUES" (Highway One Records), the first single from the forthcoming album of the same name and follow-up to her critically-acclaimed and award-winning CD, "Tequila Time."
Natasha James is interviewed live by Ken Brown, Host of "Mornings In Sonoma," (heard over KSVY 91.3 FM), this Thursday, April 28 at 8:05 a.m. The program is also broadcast on SVTV Channel 27 and streamed on www.sonomasuntv.com. Call in live: (707) 933-3133. This will be the premiere airing of James' new song "My Country Has The Blues" in advance of its radio release date.
Produced in conjunction with Stephen Hart (White Stripes, Neville Brothers, John Lee Hooker) at The Site Recording in Marin County, engineered by Ronnie Rivera, and mastered by four-time Grammy winner Gavin Lurssen, "My Country Has The Blues" is a timely anthem for what is happening all around us in our country, a catchy tune with James' unique Americana blend of country, blues, roots, and rock.
My country has the blues / she's just like me and you
She's trying hard but she's confused / we better help her to get through
Instead of standing on the sidelines / we better get some guidelines
Instead of criticizing / we better start uniting
In "My Country Has The Blues," James once again shows us she has her finger on the pulse of the human condition, with lyrics as insightful as they are timely and universal, and married to an infectious musical track guaranteed to have you singing along, with the words running in your head long after the song has ended.
Recently back from a successful whirlwind European Tour that may also spawn a live album, James will shortly embark on some selected Northern California dates in support of "My Country..." Listen to Natasha performing live at the BlueBird Café' in Europe, February, 2011.
James has recently enjoyed extensive European radio airplay on stations including Radio Eurohertz ("Doc Shultze Country Time" program); and "Country Time (UKW 88.0), as well as European station and website, Tell Them Country (read an interview with James by Tell Them Country's Sara Haskell).
Domestically, James was recently profiled on "The Wimmin's Show" heard over http://www.kzum.org/ 89.3 FM in Lincoln, NB along with fellow blues divas, Shemekia Copeland and Janiva Magness "Tequila Time" was played in its entirety on www.allsouthernrock.com.
Released in 2009, "Tequila Time" garnered James high acclaim and international airplay, making the top 5 of multiple formats in the charts. It also received favorable reviews from some of the most high-profile music publications both in the States and abroad (OUTLAW; MAVERICK; MUSIC CONNECTION; CASHBOX to name a few) as well as virtually every Nashville-based publication (MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE; NASHVILLE GAB; NASHVILLE COUNTRY CLUB; COUNTRY ENTERTAINMENT USA). Tequila Time was honored as "Country Album of the Year" by the Los Angeles Music Awards in 2009, with James winning "Producer's Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year" at the 2010 LAMA's.
In addition to this eagerly-awaited and timely single, James is also currently writing music for some upcoming reality television shows produced by Dennis Gelbaum.
Headlines for April 26, 2011:
Jeremy Parsons Inks Deal With Jett Williams / Adjett Productions Kristy Lee Joins ASCAP Lee Brice Reacts to CMT Music Awards Nomination Slayer's Jeff Hanneman Makes Triumphant Return at the Big 4 Kyle Turley, The Game May Change But The Man Doesn't Blake Shelton to Release New Album July 12 National Public Radio Features Magdalene/Thistle Farms This Week Uptown Praise Band Selected To Open Main Worship Stage Jo Dee Messina Releases New Song 'Carry Me' to Open "A Million Doors" Foster & Lloyd release first album of new material since 1990 Drew Holcomb Wins the MTVU Freshman Contest Jana Kramer Premieres "Whiskey" April 26th on the CW's One Tree Hill Jägermeister Country Tour: Second Episode of Jäger Tv Featuring Dierks Bentley Online Now Michael Logen Signs With Nettwerk Music/Moraine Music Thompson Square Nominated for CMT Breakthrough Artist of The Year Lost Rory Gallagher Studio Album From 1978 To Finally Be Released! Top 40 & AC Radio Embrace Jay Scott Berry Chesney Lands 22nd #1 Single with 'Live a Little' Big Country Records Announces Organizational Shift Ronnie Dunn Reveals Cover Art and Full Track Listing for New Album "Girl's Night Out" Rocks Ratings Hazel Dickens Passes Natasha James Interviewed Live On KSVY 91.3 FM Thursday, April 28 Guitar Slinger Frankie Ballard Plays To Sold-Out Nashville Arena Twice In One Week
Natasha James Interviewed Live Over KSVY 91.3 FM/Thursday, April 28@8:05 A.M.
Natasha James, one of the most compelling artists in the world of Americana/Roots/ Country music, returns with "MY COUNTRY HAS THE BLUES" (Highway One Records), the first single from the forthcoming album of the same name and follow-up to her critically-acclaimed and award-winning CD, "Tequila Time."
My Country Has The Blues CD Cover Featured on Womens Radio Music Review
Award-Winning musician Natasha James will be releasing her new album "My Country Has The Blues" this Spring on Highway One Records. James won "Country Songwriter of the Year" at the 2010 L.A. Music Awards.
Natasha James - Tequila Time
Natasha James gives us Tequila Time (Highway One Records), a blend of bluesy country rock. Natasha wrote 12 of the 15 tracks. I especially liked "Stuck in Atlanta" and Ain't Done Nothing Wrong" . She won the Producers Choice Award for "Country Songwriter of the Year at the 20th Annual-2010 Los Angeles Music Awards. Tequila Time is a very strong band playing music for a group of solid songs and sung by a lady with a message. That message is delivered by one of the best California troubadours to come from the West Coast in years. Laid back vocals through out gives a feel that she could have come from just down the road. The spirit of Gram Parsons lives on in California music. A laid back, feel-good listen.
Jerry Henry
Hey Honey - Get your honky tonkin' boots on. Daddy's takin' you out to the Dancehall Tonite !!!
Country Music's Natasha James has the voice of yester-year. I luv her vintage country soundz. The musicianship on this album is comfortable and warm. Like that of the ol' comfortable rockin' chair in grandma's living room. You know. The one that sits in front of that ol' fashion wooden radio from the 40?s. Natasha's sultry vocals have been compared to country diva Loretta Lynn and blues icon Bonnie Raitte, and I second that motion. The Tunes "If You Think This Is Love" and "Straight to Hell" will have you groovin', tappin' your foot and agreeing w/ me on top of that!
Maintaining the momentum above, Natasha carried her CD to the "Country Album of the Year" honors as well as other year-end music accolades, multi-talented Northern California-based singer/songwriter/guitarist Natasha James has been nominated for "2010 Female Artist of the Year" by online music magazine, ROCKWIRED.
One song that really grabbed me was the song "Tequila Time". I can see myself in my mind's eye partying down at the Riverwalk in San Antonio . Right there a few steps from the Alamo. "Remember the Alamo" Yee Haw !!!
"Ain't done nothing Wrong" is another favorite of mine. This is one of those good ol' sit on the front porch smokin' a corn cob pipe river song. My next question is. What's in da Pipe? Oh Yeah. "Cheetah on the Run" is an upbeat number with some fantastic percussions and accordion playin' goin' on. I was checking out Ms. James's Myspace and came across this song "The Restless Kind". I can here this music echoing thru those West Virginia Coal Mountains . The sax sounds and harmonica sounds on this tune are so eeeerrie . Just down right good country music.
Musicians: Natasha James - vocals & rhythm guitar Ian Lamson - lead & slide guitar Herman Ebertizsch and Ed Roth - piano, B3, accordion Woody Vermeire - violin & backup vocals Steve Evans - bass Ronnie Rivera - drums Kerry Daly - backup vocals Rafael Padilla - percussion Bobby Black - pedal steel David Aguilar - Tex-Mex guitar, dobro Ed Roth - Accordion, piano, B3
I have thoroughly enjoyed all 15 songs on this awesome compilation of American county western music. This is the music that separates us from the rest of the world. No other continent on the globe can claim that fact. We are lucky to have wonderful recording artists like Natasha . to help carry on our musical heritage.
Scott Thomas
Click here to read the review >
Natasha James' happy return to music
By Tom Lanham Special to The Examiner
Sonoma-based twang-smith Natasha James still chuckles about how when she handed a local producer her first screenplay, "Beach Baby Blues" – a hardscrabble tale of a teenage girl living by her wits while traveling the world alone – she was told her plot was totally unbelievable since young women did not lead such trashy lives.
Little did the impresario know, says the now-50-ish James, that the play was fairly autobiographical. She left home at 14, never looked back and wound up having more cosmopolitan adventures than Phileas Fogg.
Today, James is a seasoned roots-rock musician who will be playing in Sausalito on Saturday backing her recent CD, "Tequila Time," which won her a 2010 Producer's Choice Los Angeles Music Award for country songwriter of the year.
Also, she will preview songs from her upcoming set, "My Country Has the Blues."
James has lived an exotic life that started in childhood when her writer mom pushed her into studying acting with Lee Strasberg himself. Soon, she was appearing in movies, even modeling, just to please the folks.
"It was one of those arguments you have with your parents," says James, who has a photo of herself, age 8, with Walt Disney. "I wanted to do music, but my mother wanted me to be an actress. She would always say, 'Music is seedy, sordid and squalid, young lady!' And I'd say, 'Oh yeah? Well, listen to this song I just wrote!"
Top honors: Sonoma-based Natasha James won the Producer's Choice Los Angeles Music Award for Country Songwriter of the Year in 2010.
IF YOU GO
Natasha James
Where: Presidio Yacht Club, Travis Marina, Fort Baker, Sommerville Road, Sausalito
When: 8:30 p.m. Saturday
Tickets: $10
In her preteens, she trotted the globe as a research assistant to her mother, whose series of nervous breakdowns forced James out of the house.
The vagabond landed in London, squatting and busking for change, then backup-singing in a residency at Ronnie Scott's famed nightclub – "All part of my rebellion, I suppose," she says.
Later in New York, James would pay the bills with voice over work. Happily, she slips into the seductive murmur of her most signature ad: "White Linen. A crisp new fragrance for Estee Lauder!"
But when kids came along, James – a single mom – left showbiz. "I wanted them to have their own childhood," she says.
So James took a high-paying job, sennt her brood to solid schools, but asked for a sign that she could return to music once they were grown up.
"Then, boom! Everything started taking place right after that," she says. Almost immediately, James signed to a friend's label, was offered a free recording session and was flooded with offers from backing musicians.
"I'm lucky," she says. "As I move forward, I've had nothing but good, talented folks around me, so I'm feeling this new sense of camaraderie now."
Click here to read the entire story on page 22 >
"Hotel Christmas" by Natasha James Just-Released On WHP Christmas Songs Vol. 5
(THE NORTH POLE) - In the spirit of the holiday season, Award-winning Americana/Roots 'n' Country recording artist Natasha James releases "Hotel Christmas" on WHP Christmas Songs Volume 5 (website: AirPlay Direct Link: www.AirPlayDirect.com/whpchristmassongsvol5).
"Hotel Christmas," Natasha James' latest release, features the legendary Bobby Black on pedal steel, Steve Evans on bass, Rafael Padilla on percussion, and Woody Vermeire on violin among other stellar talents, and engineered by Ronnie Rivera at Prairie Sun Studios. "Hotel Christmas," which has been released to radio in the U.S. and abroad, was described as a "country classic" by Paul Loggins of STS and New Music Weekly.
James, who seamlessly blends Americana, Blues, Country and Rock into her music, just garnered "Producer's Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year" and received her plaque at the Los Angeles Music Awards' Main Event gala in November, at Paramount Studios on the storied Paramount Theater Lot in Hollywood, Calif. This marks the second consecutive year James has taken home a win at the longest-running independent music awards show of its kind. Last year she captured "Country Album of the Year" honors for her critically-acclaimed CD TEQUILA TIME (Highway One Records).
"Winning the LAMA Award for the second year in a row is such a wonderful reaffirmation that what I am doing matters," says James. "Winning 'Songwriter of the Year' makes me feel doubly glad, not just to make a difference as a performer, but that what I write is seen as worthwhile."
Natasha will be a judge, contribute a song, and perform on "FALL IN LOVE WITH AMERICA - AGAIN," a documentary-style web and mobile-based audio/video/multimedia series highlighting stories from across America. In addition to being made into a feature-length documentary film, the project includes live web cam updates, a touring exhibit, interactive websites, and social/networking sites. In her judging capacity, James "will be looking for the next great American song! and working with some of the selected new songwriters," says Executive Producer, Dennis Gelbaum. http://fallinlovewithamericaagain.blogspot.com/.
Photos by Casey Reagan/American Blues News
James was recently featured in SONGWRITERS MONTHLY, THAT NASHVILLE SOUND, OUTLAW MAGAZINE and NASHVILLE COUNTRY CLUB. Natasha's recent interview and performance on popular Hollywood-based TV show ACTORS E CHAT can be viewed here: http://actorsentertainment.com/actorse/november-18th-2010-actorse-chat-with-singer-natasha-james-and-guitarist-james-harman/.
Moving forward, Natasha's TEQUILA TIME will be on Bluebird Cafe Records Berlin Sampler for Country Music Messe - Berlin 2011, at which Natasha will be performing this upcoming February during her European Tour.
Headlines for December 16, 2010:
Jamey Johnson's 25-Song Double Album The Guitar Song Certified Gold "Doctor" Al Brock Is Open for Business General Mills, Care and Country Music Star Lee Ann Womack Join Forces to Fight Poverty in Africa Bo Bice Plans To Ring In The New Year Overseas with Troops The Music City Community Chorus Performs Rachmaninoff For Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee Able Forces and The Country Network Form Partnership on Heroes For Hire Video Resume for Television Coldwater Canyon Band to Appear on Gary Carver Live on December 22 Music City Media Artists Lend Their Warmth to Christmas4Kids People Are Talking About Mr. Talkbox IEBA Conference Set for New Location in 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee Warner Brothers Records' Guitar Slinger Frankie Ballard Featured in GAC Exclusive Web Series 'Road Reports' Warner Brothers Records' Duo The JaneDear Girls Only Country Artist Featured on MyYouTube Promotion New Cracker Barrel Exclusive Music Spreads Holiday Cheer Country Stars to Appear in HBO Mini Series Valerie Smith's BLAME IT ON THE BLUEGRASS Arriving 1.11.11 Force MP Entertainment Recording Artist Steve Richard Awards Prize to Cookeville, TN FFA Chapter First Live Show of 2011 for Country Songwriter of the Year, Natasha James Innovative 37 Records Rings In The New Year GACTV.com Country Music News Link
First Live Show of 2011 for Country Songwriter of the Year, Natasha James
Multiple Los Angeles Music Awards recipient Natasha James, who seamlessly blends Americana, Blues, Country and Rock into her music, kicks off the New Year with a show at Presidio Yacht Club, Travis Marina, Sausalito, Saturday, January 8. 8:30 p.m. $10. Info: (415) 332-2319 or log onto http://www.presidioyachtclub.org.
Natasha kicks off a European Tour with an appearance at Country Music Meese - Berlin 2011 (February 4-6), with Natasha's single TEQUILA TIME to be included on Bluebird Cafe Records Berlin Sampler. This is followed by shows in Belgium February 10 and 13 (more to be added).
The production team of Natasha James and Ronnie Rivera are teaming up with Stephen Hart (White Stripes, Neville Bros, John Lee Hooker) over at The Site Recording in Marin County, to record Natasha's upcoming CD, MY COUNTRY HAS THE BLUES, scheduled for release Spring 2011. Look for the sampler at NAMM this coming January.
James received her "Producer's Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year" plaque at the Los Angeles Music Awards' Main Event in November at Paramount Studios on the storied Paramount Theater Lot in Hollywood, Calif. In 2009 James won an L.A. Music Award plaque for "Country Album Of the Year" for TEQUILA TIME. View photos of James at this year's L.A. Music Awards: http://www.ameriblues.com/2010/11/24/the-la-music-awards-presents-by-casey-reagan/.
In the spirit of the holiday season, James has released "Hotel Christmas" on WHP Christmas Songs Volume 5 (website: AirPlay Direct Link: http://www.AirPlayDirect.com/whpchristmassongsvol5). "Hotel Christmas" features the legendary Bobby Black on pedal steel, Steve Evans on bass, Rafael Padilla on percussion, and Woody Vermeire on violin among other stellar talents, and engineered by Ronnie Rivera at Prairie Sun Studios. "Hotel Christmas," which has been released to radio in the U.S. and abroad, was described as a "country classic" by Paul Loggins of STS and New Music Weekly.
Natasha will be a judge, contribute a song, and perform on "FALL IN LOVE WITH AMERICA - AGAIN," a documentary-style web and mobile-based audio/video/multimedia series highlighting stories from across America. See http://www.fallinlovewithamericaagain.blogspot.com/.
Watch for a Feature on James in an upcoming issue of CASHBOX MAGAZINE. Natasha's recent interview and performance on popular Hollywood-based TV show ACTORS E CHAT can be viewed here: http://actorsentertainment.com/actorse/november-18th-2010-actorse-chat-with-singer-natasha-james-and-guitarist-james-harman/.
Headlines for December 9, 2010:
LA Music Awards Winner Natasha James Releases "Hotel Christmas" From WHP Christmas Volume 5 Joe Nichols' "Gimmie That Girl" 2nd Most Played Song of 2010 Easton Corbin Kicks Off Holiday Season At Vanderbilt Monroe Carrell Jr. Children's Hospital Performers Announces For 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year Honoring Barbara Streisand Andy Griggs Back in the Spotlight and Fans Say Amen Eileen Carey Inspires New Line Dance Force MP Entertainment and Steve Richard Award Prizes to FFA Chapters Across the U.S. Jason Sturgeon and Friends Sing For Toys Mark Wills to Judge 2011 Miss America Pageant Court Yard Hounds Debut New Music Clay Walker Reveals Healthy (and Sexy!) Habits Taylor Swift Keeps 'Speak Now' at No. 1 Joe Diffie Cookbook Blends Family Recipes and Country Hits Bandbox Preps 2011 Launch Word Launches 25 Live Agency Lucinda Williams Sets March Release For New CD Nashville Planning Artist Residence GACTV.com Country Music News Link
LA Music Awards Winner Natasha James Releases "Hotel Christmas" From WHP Christmas Volume 5
In the spirit of the holiday season, Award-winning Americana/Roots 'n' Country recording artist Natasha James releases "Hotel Christmas" on WHP Christmas Songs Volume 5 (website: AirPlay Direct Link: www.AirPlayDirect.com/whpchristmassongsvol5).
Natasha James: Tequilla Time (sampler)
In our surroundings, this blond singer is ( still) relatively unknown, but in her home state of California she has received many accolades.
Last year, her 2nd CD " Tequila Time" was nominated as best country-album and she was recognized by the LA Awards as " the best country song writer".
Country is actually a bit of a misnomer as Natasha spices up her songs with a heavy dose of the blues. No one has to teach her how to write songs for it is quite evident when listening to the sampler, which contains the three tracks:
In " Get out of my way", we hear her sing with great gusto and confidence and we find this same confidence when we personally meet her in the saloon. Sharp resonation and her cool presentation create an unexpected, almost confrontational atmosphere after the title-song " Tequila Time" , which is rather a laid back-drinking song.
You are urged to listen closely to the third track as this song is quite a true satisfying experience; "If You Think This is Love" is the Bonnie Raitt song we have not heard Bonnie sing for many years.
There are concrete plans for this wonderful singer to give performances in Europa and in particular a launching in Belgium. She is booked for a concert on February 10, 2011 in Chatelet, fortunately in the province of Heregouwen.
Cis Van Looy (3)
Label: Highway One Records Nr.: Zonder nummer (sampler) Distr.: www.swappingmusic.eu Meer info: www.swappingmusic.eu Website: www.natashajames.com Review placed on: 8/12/2010
The LA Music Awards...Presents!
By Casey Reagan November 24, 2010
Perfect weather, good food and drink and a host of beautiful people were on hand as well as media from around the globe to check out the 20th Annual LA Music Awards presentations at the world famous Paramount Theater in Hollywood CA. I've already explained the in's and out's of the awards in a previous story and won't waste words by rehashing the same material. In this piece I hope to let you experience a taste of what we were treated to as guests of the awards. I want to first give credit to the photographers who helped me out with this project starting with my brother Riley. Ri's work is marked 'rjr' and his contributions are really appreciated, thanks Riles. Next in line for thanks is my new friend who I feel like I've known for years, Billy Wayne Turner. Billy is a true professional photographer who has more credits and credentials to his name than I have words for. I'm hoping to sit down with Billy real soon and convince him to allow me to show YOU some of the photographic treasures he's collected during his years as a blues photographer, for now you can enjoy some of BWT's work right here on Ameriblues.com. All images marked 'bwt' contain exclusively Billy's photos although the collages we're constructed by me for space concerns. All photos are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Photos used with written permission only.
Click here to read the entire story and view all of the photos >
Headlines for October 15, 2010: Winners Announced For The 16th Annual Inspirational Country Music Awards Bo Bice Wins "Don't Forget The Lyrics" Whisperin' Bill Anderson and Charlie Louvin Are Both Winners Coverband 2011 Contest - Earn Fame, Prozes and a Gig In California The Judds Kick Into High Gear With Media Hits Throughout October The Belleville Outfit Returns To Nashville To Play The Station Inn Nov. 5 Acclaimed Songwriter/Producer Chas Sandford To Release Second Album "Wag More, Bark Less" 1/11/11 John Chaffee's Independent Lion Is Roaring Loud And Clear With 'Easy Money' Natasha James Wins "Country Songwriter of the Year" At 2010 L.A. Music Awards The Janedear Girls Share Their Favorite Things Stuck With Green Announces Immediate Release Make A Difference Tour Starts Strong And Sets Live Webcast Record Gov. Huckabee And Aaron Tippin Celebrate Album Release Heidi Newfield Talks About 'Her Country' Carrie Underwood Has a 'Pregnancy Pact' Taylor Swift to Release Vinyl Version of 'Speak Now' Sara Evans to Join Rascal Flatts at Go Fest The Capitol Street Party Shuts Down Demombruen Street File Sharers Won't Allow A Target on Their Hard Drive Glee Strikes a Chord Sugarland Joins USO Divas Blake Shelton Makes First Stop on Headlining Tour Carrie Underwood Wows Nashville Audience On Target with Keith Urban CMA Honors Triple Play Writers GACTV.com Country Music News Link
Natasha James Wins "Country Songwriter of the Year" At 2010 L.A. Music Awards
(HOLLYWOOD, CA) - Natasha James, a Northern California-based guitarist-singer-songwriter who seamlessly blends Americana, Blues, Country and Rock into her music, has won "Producer's Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year" for the 2010 (20th Annual) Los Angeles Music Awards, it was announced by LAMA Executive Producer, Al Bowman.
This marks the second consecutive year James has taken home a win at the longest-running independent music awards show of its kind; last year she captured "Country Album of the Year" honors for her critically-acclaimed CD TEQUILA TIME (Highway One Records).
James will be awarded her "Producer's Choice: Country Songwriter of the Year" Plaque at the Los Angeles Music Awards' Main Event, happening Thursday, November 18 at Paramount Studios on the storied Paramount Theater Lot in Hollywood, Calif. Natasha will walk the Red Carpet along with film and music luminaries (and fellow Plaque recipients) that include renowned musicians Jack Blades and Tommy Shaw; actress Sally Kirkland; famed music producer Eddie Kramer; and many others.
TEQUILA TIME was touted by respected international publication MUSIC CONNECTION as "Country steeped in Blues and Tex-Mex." James' remarkable radio success continues as both her TEQUILA TIME and BAD JUDGMENTS albums are currently being played on the air in Japan, The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, England, France, Spain, Italy and more. Within two hours of TEQUILA TIME being uploaded, over 400 radio downloads of her songs had occurred! MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE called "If You Think This Is Love" a "downright Bonnie Raitt blues-y performance...one of (James') best. The song is "a twangy hip shaker guaranteed to grab you by your feet and throw you in a dancing mood."
Natasha will be a Featured Guest and Perform Live on Actors E Chat in Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday, November 18 at 10 a.m.(log onto www.actorsentertainment.com to listen and watch live). The popular web-based program interviews some of today's best and brightest entertainers from both the worlds of music and film making.
- Nashville Music Guide , October 15, 2010
Click here to read the entire review >
Laid back West Coast influenced retro country
Although my mother never tired of telling me to 'never judge a book by the cover' the cover of Natasha James second album TEQUILA TIME certainly caught my attention. On it the blonde singer-songwriter is pictured wearing a sexy low cut blouse and a world weary expression. Both elements sum up the actual album very well.
Natasha's style throught is friendly and reminds me at times of Loretta, Tammy and even Patsy Cline. The self-penned songs are generally reflective of a life well lived and lessons not always learnt.
A handful of songs on TEQUILA TIME really stand out especially Modern Time which has Natasha bringing her Resonator guitar to the front of the mix and has the opening lines: 'Daddy goes to NA/Momma goes to AA/the kids are playing internet games/the cats and dogs are spayed/Daddy lives an hour away/Momma's got a new boyfriend'. It's a 100% pure country song and deserves to become a classic.
Ain't Done Nothing Wrong and Get Out of My Way are both fine driving songs but I'm left feeling a little disappointed with the title track Tequila Time which has the right elements for a great song including some rather neat fiddle and piano interplay but Natasha's warm voice can't quite handle a song about partying hard. Perhaps it will sound better when played live and the tempo is cranked up a touch.
- Review by AH - Maverick Magazine
EVIEVISION AND RAMP IT UP ENTERTAINMENT ASK US TO 'FALL IN LOVE WITH AMERICA - AGAIN!'
'Fall In Love With America - Again' (created by Evie Evangelou, Amber Roniger and Dennis Gelbaum) is an innovative, timely and important new documentary style web and mobile based multimedia series highlighting stories from across America - stories from big cities, small towns, communities, neighborhoods, streets, homes, rooms. It's all about what we think America is, who American's are, how we see ourselves, and how we welcome the world to our home.
"The 'Fall In Love With America - Again' project is an expression of freedom, of creativity, inspiration and love of country. It is a declaration of the best of America by the people and for the people. I am certain that this campaign and project with its positive message and novel point of view, will create a halo effect around everyone involved." Evie Evangelou, Co-Executive Producer.
Natasha James Falls In Love With America Again
"It is not often you get asked to participate in a project that immediately strikes you as exciting, valuable, timely and interesting. In short, one that has all the elements that can bring wide interest and reception, the elements that ring that doorbell called, SUCCESS. In addition, it is even more rare, to be able to contribute and participate in all the very areas that are the most exciting to you. In my capacity as Judge, and writer, and performer, among other areas I am involved in with this project, I look forward to being able to uncover some gems of songs and work with the songwriters to be able to bring them to the spotlight. Dennis Gelbaum, the show's Co- Executive Producer, has brought such a project to me: 'FALL IN LOVE WITH AMERICA -AGAIN!' This is the story of all of us, for all of us, by all of us." Natasha James
Dennis Gelbaum adds: "Having Natasha James join us as a contributor and judge is incredible! She knows how important it is to connect - up close and personal - with her audience, and that is exactly what our project is all about - connecting, engaging, motivating and inspiring everyone to fall in love with America again!"
Click here to read more >
Click here to view promotional video >
- Music Connection, June, 2010
Click here to read the magazine >
Natasha James Tequila Time Highway One Records
Natasha James can certainly kick up the dust with jukebox-worthy saloon song about drinking or life on the edge. She can also paint poignant lyrical portrait of life in America, complete with all its blemishes. However, she is at her finest when she is doing a little bit of both while adding a touch of the blues.
Musically, "Boy Do We Drink" comes across as a fun, tongue-in-cheek romp, but the honesty within the lyrics is impressively bold. In "Modern Life," James doesn't hide behind vague lives one hour away/Mamma's got a new boyfriend once again/vacuum's broke; cell phone's misplaced/Let's go out to dinner 'cuz it's gettin' late."
"My son's eyes welled up when he heard that song saying, 'This is your life,' and I said, 'This is a lot of people's lives.'"
In tracks like "Ain't Nothin Wrong" and "Somebody Just Blew It" Natasha's wickedly husky vocals strut through the music like a cocky outlaw.
Tequila Time is a brazenly confident album packed with edge and honesty.
- Songwriters Monthly, May 2010, #124
New Music Weekly Announces Winners of 2009 NMA's Los Angeles, CA - New Music Weekly magazine has announced the winners for their 2009 New Music Awards. Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Daughtry and the Black Eyed Peas are among the major label winners while Natasha James, Bruce Sudano, Kevin Lucas Orchestra and Vince Hatfield are among the many independent artists in the winners circle. Radio stations, programmers, labels are also awarded top honors in a process. The list of winners will be featured in their 2010 Music Preview issue: AC/HOT AC NEW ARTIST: NATASHA JAMES
Natasha James: "Tequila Time"
The sophomore album from this remarkably talented Sonoma County singer-songwriter was voted Country Album of the Year at the 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards.
But the 15-song CD is much more than a straight country album. James does indeed cover that genre on tunes such as the cryin'-in-your-beer lament "Straight to Hell" and the country rocking title track, but she's versatile enough to be comfortable in acoustic Americana styles, minor key blues, story songs, straight-ahead rockers and, surprisingly enough, even Latin jazz on a tune called "Cheetah on the Run."
On this CD, recorded at Cotati's Prairie Sun studios, James surrounds her rough but relaxed vocals and resonator guitar with expert playing by some of the North Bay's finest musicians - pedal steel legend Bobby Black, fiddle ace Woody Vermiere, Ed Roth on accordion and piano, guitarists Ian Lamson and David Aguilar, drummer Ronnie Rivera, percussionists Rafael Padilla and Danilo Paiz and Marin's Steve Evans on bass. Kerry Daly adds background vocals.
"Tequila Time" is the follow to her acclaimed debut album, "Bad Judgments." She had an Americana hit with the single "The Restless Kind" on that album, and follows it with the new single "If You Think This is Love," a mid-tempo blues rocker with a stick-in-your head guitar lick. On "Boy Do We Drink," "Somebody Just Blew It," "Fillin' Station" and "Stuck in Atlanta," James shows that she's been around the block, still has a sense of humor about it all and can write about universal themes of love and loss without resorting to tired tropes and country cliches.
This is a mature singer-songwriter at the peak of her powers who reminds me of Bonnie Raitt and Susan Tedeschi, but has a style all her own. With "Tequila Time," James just might break into the pop music mainstream.
Buy it: "Tequila Time," Natasha James, Highway One Records, iTunes; $9.99
See her: Natasha James performs at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at Rancho Nicasio, 1 Old Rancheria Road, Nicasio; 662-2219 or www.ranchonicasio.com; $10 to $12.
- Paul Liberatore, Marin Sonoma here, January 29, 2010
"Crossover Queen" Natasha James Nominated For Female Artist Of The Year By Rockwired Magazine
Maintaining the momentum that carried her to "Country Album of the Year" honors as well as other year-end music accolades, multi-talented Northern California-based singer/songwriter/guitarist Natasha James is nominated for "2010 Female Artist of the Year" by online music magazine, ROCKWIRED. Log onto www.rockwired.com to vote for Natasha now through February 28 (winners announced on March 1).
James is interviewed by Ladies In Music on Tuesday, January 19 at 10:30 a.m. (www.beckyalter.com to listen live); and XRadio on Saturday, January 23 at 8 a.m. (www.xradio.biz to listen live). Natasha is a Featured Artist this week on www.localmusicvibe.com.
Locally Natasha James performs at the Sausalito Yacht Club, Foot of El Portal (Travis Marina), Sausalito, Saturday, January 23; 8:30 p.m. $10. Info: (415) 332-2319 or log onto www.sausalitoyachtclub.org; and Rancho Nicasio, #1 Old Rancheria Rd. , Nicasio, Friday, January 29. 8:30 p.m. $10 w/dinner; $12 w/out dinner. Info: (415) 662-2219 or log onto www.ranchonicasio.com.
James has just released a new single, "If You Think This Is Love" on Highway One Records. MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE called "If You Think This Is Love" a "downright Bonnie Raitt blues-y performance.one of (James') best." The song is "a twangy hip shaker guaranteed to grab you by your feet and throw you in a dancing mood. Her vocals are like the lost sister of Bonnie Raitt and Loretta Lynn," according to one fan.
James is as hot as any performer going at the moment. She won "Country Album Of The Year" for her '09 release TEQUILA TIME at the recent 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards (view Natasha being interviewed on the Red Carpet at the LAMA's at http://www.dailymotion.com/related/xbn4k8/channel/music/2). James was nominated in five categories by NEW MUSIC WEEKLY for their 2009 Awards; chosen a "Hot 100 Artist For 2009" by longtime respected trade publication, MUSIC CONNECTION; and saw TEQUILA TIME selected as a "Best Of the 2000's/End Of Decade" choice by Live 365/WOMENS RADIO, where it is presently being featured.
James' TEQUILA TIME continues its successful ascension of the National Radio Charts, this week coming in at #4 on the Hot 100 Singles Chart; #6 (Top 40 Main Chart);#6 on the AC/Hot AC Main Chart; in addition to the Main Charts of Country, AAA, and College. Indeed, TEQUILA TIME is one of the few releases in recent memory to perform so strongly in all the various musical formats! Source: Spins Tracking System.
"In a radio climate full of loud, heavily-produced songs filled with guitar riffs straight out of the 80's, it's very refreshing to come across a country album that sounds a little bit country," writes NASHVILLE GAB. "Fine playing and very original writing grace this album.based out of California, Ms. James makes it clear that there is still a little bit of Gram Parsons and the Byrds alive out along the West Coast, as well as some Fleetwood Mac. "Tequila Time" is a country rock album to make Laurel Canyon proud."
- Music News Nashville News, January 20, 2010
- Music Connection, NAMM issue, January, 2010
Crossover Queen Natasha James Releases New Single "If You Think This Is Love"
Maintaining the momentum that carried her to "Country Album of the Year" honors as well as other year-end music accolades, multi-talented NorCal singer/songwriter/guitarist Natasha James releases a new single, "If You Think This Is Love," January 4, 2010 on the Highway One Records indie label imprint. MUSIC NEWS NASHVILLE called "If You Think This Is Love" a "downright Bonnie Raitt blues-y performance. One of (James') best." The song is "a twangy hip shaker guaranteed to grab you by your feet and throw you in a dancing mood. Her vocals are like the lost sister of Bonnie Raitt and Loretta Lynn," according to one fan.
The sultry songstress is as hot as any performer going at the moment; in addition to winning "Country Album Of The Year" for her '09 release TEQUILA TIME at the recent 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards, James is nominated in five categories for the 2009 New Music Weekly Awards:; was chosen a "Hot 100 Artist For 2009" by longtime respected trade publication, MUSIC CONNECTION; is nominated for "2010 Female Artist of the Year" by online music magazine, ROCKWIRED; and saw TEQUILA TIME selected as a "Best Of the 2000's/End Of Decade" choice by Live 365/WOMENS RADIO, where it is presently being featured.
James' TEQUILA TIME continues her successful ascension of the National Radio Charts, this week coming in at #4 on the Hot 100 Singles Chart; #6 on the Top 40 Main Chart; and #6 on the AC/Hot AC Main Chart; in addition to the Main Charts of Country, AA, and College. Indeed, TEQUILA TIME is one of the few releases in recent memory to perform so strongly in all the various musical formats! Source: Spins Track System.
- Music News Nashville News, January 4, 2010
Natasha James :: Tequila Time
"Winner of Country Album Of The Year for the 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards, Tequila Time sticks to traditional fiddle-heavy alcohol lovin' and technology hatin' anthems like Boy Do We Drink and Modern Life.
...the album is distinguished by a deviation into the Americana genre, and this is where the sounds should definitely be explored more. The not purely traditional pop country sound is where this album excels and exceeds expectations. The stronger songs on the album emphasize the production and appreciation for a variety of musical instruments including lap steel, a Dobro, accordion and violin. This would be a great band to see live.
My favorite tracks on the album include Fillin' Station and Cheetah On The Run, both sharing an almost samba rhythm joined by accordion, Spanish guitar and hand percussion. I also enjoyed Ain't Done Nothin' Wrong with an old lap steel thrum and Dixieland bounce. Vocally Natasha's voice has been compared to Janis Joplin and Kim Carnes, but I thought she sounded more like the contralto of Fleetwood Mac's Christine McVie."
- Brooke Mason, All Access Magazine, December 17, 2009
- Music Connection, December, 2009
Jacob reviews Natasha James - Tequila Time
"In a radio climate full of loud, heavily produced songs filled with guitar riffs straight out of the 80's, it's very refreshing to come across a country album that sounds a little bit country. Natasha James delivers a throw back album that makes me long for the days when they played fiddle and steel on country radio, and not in the "See, look, we're country, we have fiddle!" kind of way. Sadly, it seems as though we have to look somewhere besides the Nashville city limits to find it.
Based out of California, Ms. James makes it clear that there is still a little bit of Gram Parsons and the Byrds alive out along the West Coast, as well as some Fleetwood Mac. "Tequila Time" is a country rock album to make Laurel Canyon proud. At 15 songs, this record runs the gamut of topics, from the all knowing regret of a foolhearted decision in "Straight To Hell", to the frustration we all know of staring at an airport runway for hours on end in "Stuck In Atlanta".
Fine playing and very original writing graces this album... Most of the songs here are written solely with her own pen, allowing for a lot of consistency in the personality throughout... All in all, a pretty good album... It's a shame Ms. James is all the way out West, she'd fit right in here in Nashville."
- Jacob, Nashville Gab, December 10, 2009
"For northern California Americana artist Natasha James, it's all about the groove; be it a blues rocker, a Tex-Mex toe tapper or a country tune, she comes through with a production that captures the right feel for the song on her latest CD "Tequila Time" on Highway One Records.
James does have a knack for conjuring up some of music's most celebrated singers, and these are her coolest vocals moments. Flashes of Kim Carnes (Bette Davis Eyes) phrasing slithers in like the slide guitar in "Get Out of My Way": "I was thinkin' about you/I was thinkin' about me, too/You got a ways to go before I'm gonna/ Walk my road with you/Hey baby won't you get out of my way". In "Straight to Hell", James tells the story of the darker side of drinking and other bad choices, with a Loretta Lynn straight-shooter approach: "The moment that I saw you I knew/I was along for the ride/It was the worst possible choice/But that's something I do very well/I got an uncanny ability with amazing accuracy gone/Straight to hell on the wings of a bottle/Straight to hell with my angels by my side/Straight to hell in fifth gear at full throttle/Straight to hell with my eyes open wide". A downright Bonnie Raitt bluesy performance is given in "If You Think This is Love", one of her best on "Tequila Time"."
- Janet Goodman, Music News Nashville, October 22, 2009
Crossing over to acclaim
"Natasha James's latest album was named Country Album of the Year by the Annual Los Angeles Music Awards. (Courtesy photo)
It may be an enthusiastic publicist's cliche, calling singer-songwriter-guitarist Natasha James the "Crossover Music Queen," but like any hyperbole, mild or otherwise, there is a kernel of truth in it.
Her latest album, "Tequila Time," a 15-song opus on Sonoma County's Highway One Records, does indeed touch on myriad styles. They range from three-chord rock 'n' roll ("Straight to Hell") and Tex-Mex ("Cheetah On The Run") to barroom shuffle ("Stuck in Atlanta") and blues ("Ain't Done Nothin' Wrong"). Others, like "Fillin' Station," a tune about a young, nameless shooting victim lying on a city street, offer an intriguing amalgam of Latin and rock rhythms, while "Let Me Cry" is a simple, heartfelt break-up ballad that showcases a gift for incisive lyrics.
Just don't call her a country singer -- the San Francisco native prefers "roots rock" or "Americana" musician -- even though the newly released disc has been named Country Album of the Year, a honor from the Annual Los Angeles Music Awards that she will pick up Nov. 12."
- Richard Bammer, Vacaville Reporter, October 21, 2009
"Being considered hotter than the blazing California wild fires, comes songstress, Natasha James - her album "Tequila Time," being a rapid aggression within the mainstream music scene.
..."Tequila Time," is nominated in the "Country Album of the Year," category and Jame's catchy tune "Get Out Of My Way," has been nominated for "Country Single of the Year" to top it all off, at this year's 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards.
Natasha has ... earned her rightful taste of the musician's spotlight. Allowing her musical abilities to soar ever so higher that it shall glide right up in and on through the clouds off into the stars."
- Natalie Perez, LA Rock Music Examiner, September, 2009
"... Natasha James is a fine singer and songwriter. Her style is laid-back and easygoing. It's obvious she's very comfortable in her own skin, as the saying goes. Most important, in my opinion, it sounds like she's having a good time.
James' simple, dead-on lyrics paint vivid mental and emotional images. The band is tight and the musicianship is up to the standard you expect from country musicians while covering a broad range of styles. There's a lot to like on this collection. I suggest you check it out." - Chon, Roots, Rock 'n Blues, May 20, 2009
Pass the Patrón After some bad judgments, it's 'Tequila Time' for Natasha James
"... Playful, upbeat ease is indeed what colors Tequila Time, as James' confident band nails roots styles ranging from the old-time barroom shuffle of "Stuck in Atlanta" to the salsa/Tex-Mex mix of "Cheetah on the Run" to the country blues groove of "Ain't Done Nothin' Wrong." Gone are the horns that gave Bad Judgements a jazzy flavor, but Tequila Time ups the rock ante. "Straight to Hell" is a big, righteous ballad worthy of early '70s Rolling Stones, while "Get Out of My Way" is sassy Southern rock reminiscent of the Allman Brothers." - Karl Byrn, North Bay Bohemian, April 29, 2009
Click here to read the entire article and review >
"With the country twang of Bonnie Raitt and the rocker style of Stevie Nicks, Sonoma resident Natasha James has been singing and writing music for as long as she can remember. But the release of her latest album, "Tequila Time," has brought James to the national spotlight as a force in the roots music scene. "Tequila Time" is currently at number 19 on the California Roots Music Report and number 20 on the American Roots Music Report, which tracks the number of radio plays an album receives. Her style of music speaks to the heartland and she's become a favorite on Midwestern radio stations but can also be heard on NPR." - Story by Emily Charrier-Botts, Sonoma News, April 24, 2009
"It may be Tequila Time for Natasha, but her latest CD, Tequila Time, may just take her to the big time... The disc is one of those you can put into the player and just let roll, as the songs have a familiar ring to them but are also uniquely Natasha's... Natasha's lyrics tell stories, stories that most of us can relate to, as many of us have lived the words. It's tough to top Natasha's live show, but this disc is certainly her best recorded work to date and is well deserving of the accolades it's getting in advance airplay around the country. It’s a solid disc, and should open doors for her and the band." - Review by JM Berry, Sonoma News, April 24, 2009
".I am a fan of the technique of assembling a group of outstanding musicians, a top shelf producer.Ronnie Rivera. with some old school sensibilities and grinding out a good quality record with a classic sound. Natasha James newest effort Tequila Time is just that. It's an amalgam of blues, rock, alt-country and a dash of Tex-Mex for flavor, the essence of what roots music is supposed to be.add the rough edge of James' vocal timber, reminiscent of Janis Joplin or Alannah Myles, and you have a winning formula ripe for today's roots Americana movement." - Reb Landers, The Alternate Root, April 2009
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Tequila Time, the New Release from Natasha James, A Triple Shot of Triple AAA/Americana Already Making Waves at Radio
Tequila Time, by Natasha James, engineered by Ronnie Rivera (Lisa Marie Presley), and mastered by Gavin Lurssen ("Raising Sand," Allison Krauss/Robert Plant), is her latest release on Highway One Records. 15 stellar tunes with soulful driving vocals...
Nashville, TN (Billboard Publicity Wire) March 5, 2009 -- Tequila Time, the latest release from Highway One Records recording artist, Natasha James, is a triple shot of Triple AAA/Americana already making waves at radio with roots rock hits from country rock, to Tex-Mex, to swampy country blues. Her vocals have been compared to Bonnie Raitt, Janis Joplin, Stevie Nicks, Joan Baez; her music to Van Morrison, Los Lobos, Allman Bros, Neil Young, Johnny Cash.see for yourself.you might just wanna join her "south of the border, livin' on Tequila Time."
The production is superb, with Ronnie Rivera engineering (Lisa Marie Presley) and 6x GRAMMY winner, Gavin Lurssen, mastering (Allison Krauss/Robert Plant, "Raising Sand"; Oh Brother, Where Art Thou).
With Tequila Time, an impeccable collection of songs with soulful driving vocals, Natasha shows us that she's here to stay.
Natasha says, "...don't we all wanna be south of the border, livin' on Tequila Time?"
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Natasha James - Sweet, sultry, sassy, sexy...
"All words that could easily describe the bay Area singer/songwriter Natasha James. On the album 'Bad Judgements' she teams up with a band of seasoned players to weave through a mix of jazz tinged, roots country reminiscent of the early 90's Van Morrison sound. Her voice is powerful and the songwriting is top shelf. It's AAA / Americana with a musical maturity that's rare in the format. There's twang for those who prefer their Americana a little 'rootsier' but all of it is radio ready. For a copy to play or review give us a call at 610.967.5948 or click here."
Natasha James has done some living!
Natasha James May Have Made One or Two "Bad Judgements" Throughout Her Life; Recently Releasing Her Debut Album Featuring the Hit Single, The Restless Kind Is Certainly Not One of Them.
Nashville, TN (Billboard Publicity Wire) February 14, 2008 -- Natasha James may have made one or two "bad judgements" throughout her life. However, recently releasing her debut album featuring the hit single, The Restless Kind, is certainly not one of them.
As the song goes, "Country after country, it's a landscape of the mind. So many lifetimes up ahead, so many left behind. Well, I guess, I always wanted them all, but only some of the time, I guess I was born, The Restless Kind." -- Natasha James
She's the consummate singer-songwriter and the kind of unique artist who can craft visuals merely through her songwriting. Natasha pens works that cross many musical genres and pull at the heartstrings all music lovers... especially country music enthusiasts.
