Izzy James,a.k.a. James Israel McLoryd / Jack McLoryd, grew up listening to Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Earth Wind & Fire. They all made significant statements regarding the "state of affairs" at that time. Those songs still resonate with him as does any message of Love, Peace and Hope. Growing up spiritually he now recognizes that he has a basic love for mankind that he refused to acknowledge in his youth.

His professional musical career started at the age of 12 as the lead vocalist of the group "James & The Soul Drivers". He was hanging out in clubs with people 5 years his elder, feeling comfortable in their company and their environment. He often tagged along with his idols of the time, a popular local band called "The Pirates". One of the most exciting nights of his young life was when they let his group play during their break at a CYO dance. From that point on Izzy James was in love with being on stage.

After high school graduation some of his musical friends went off to music school. Izzy James, however, took what he thought to be the most practical direction, studied marketing. Coming from an unstable, alcoholic, and violent home, a secure income was top priority. While attending college he studied electric bass with a local jazz guitarist and then a jazz bassist. Working with them Izzy got his theory and function of his instrument together.

He went to school and work during the day then played in bands at local clubs at night. Eventually, he graduated to the "Show Band" circuit. These were highly rehearsed traveling groups playing in casino lounges and large clubs throughout the US.

During this period he had his closest brushes with commercial success. As the result of a demo submission, Warner Brothers records became interested in signing Izzy James, but eventually passed saying he sounded too much like a recently signed artist. Soon after this let down Izzy appeared on the national TV show "Star Search". His "wanna be" manager got him on the show with the understanding that he would win. Well, Izzy didn't. He came in second in a two man contest. Although he took pride in a good performance and guests outside the TV studio told him he got robbed, Izzy was crushed and completely depressed. From a musical standpoint he didn't recover until now. His new CD ‘Call To Conscience’ reflects his desire to leave his mark on society.

Interview with Izzy James...

- Could you briefly tell us about your background? Like, when you're born? And have you always wanted to be singer?
1962. I always enjoyed singing but didn't always want to be one. I was an athlete as well.

- What songs did you play with The Soul Drivers ? What kind of cover songs did you play and were there other original songs?
There were no original songs with The Soul Drivers. The artists we covered ranged from James Brown, Wilson Pickett, Sam & Dave. Mitch Ryder, etc

- When did you appeared on Star Search? What did you learn from the experience?
I appeared in 1985 or 1986. I learned two distinct lessons.
1) I learned that you have to rely on yourself for success.
2) Things are not what they appear to be. My understanding was that I was going to defeat the long time champion and then be defeated myself and all 3 of us were to go on to the next round. My manager was unaware that the show was only interested in "uptempo" songs. Our first submission was a ballad and as a result the show changed my taping day and now I was scheduled to lose, which I did.

- Moving up to date, recently you released your debut album A Call To Conscience. Could you tell us a little bit about it ? Like, what was the road like to get there, and how about your impressions about it?
I had recorded demos for years with the hope of landing a record deal. With the arrival and growth of the internet I saw an opportunity that did not exist before. Once I found the musicians I wanted to work with I began the project. The entire process from composing new songs and re-working old ones, rehearsals and development sessions, to the actual recording and mixing was a joy. I worked very slowly and carefully to create the sound on CD that was in my head. I am extremely happy with the result and can't wait to do another.

- How has the reaction been so far?
The reaction has been very,very positive. The promoting of the Cd has just begun and several of the songs have been signed with a publisher including a new song not on the CD.

- How do you describe the sound and style of A Call To Conscience?
It's style is retro R&B, Funk/Soul, with elements of jazz. The sound is big, clear and distinct.

- Let's talk about the album art, red heart on blue background. Is there a meaning behind it?
The heart signifies where this music originated and also it's final destination- God willing. From my heart to yours. The blue background represents the vast Spiritual Ocean from which all beings begin their journey.

- How do you write a song? Lyrics then music? Or music then lyrics?
I write both ways. Being a bassist/guitarist, some songs start from a simple line but most are written on guitar.

- How does your personal songwriting process work? And what are you striving for when you write a song?
Well, the process takes different forms. I was injured and on complete bedrest the year before I started the CD. I spent 3 months laying in my bed playing guitar creating song ideas and eventually several songs resulted. Now that I'm very active again I have to schedule in time to "Play" guitar and bass for creative not practice purposes. Which ever method is employed it must be preceded with "Inspiration". I cannot sit down and write songs on command. At least songs of any substance.

- What are your strong points?
As a songwriter I think I'm strong in both lyric and music composition. In "A Call to Conscience" my goal was to make the music accessible to the general public "and" make it interesting for musically trained ears as well. I believe I accomplished that goal. The listener "gets it" the first time they hear the Cd because the lyrics are clear and understandable. The grooves are strong so even if you are not listening to the words you will be engaged by the rhythms.

- What really drives you or motivates you to continue to sing/write ?
The joy I derive from it. I encourage everyone to sing. It makes you feel good.

- What is music for you?
It's one of the main reasons I'm on the planet. Music is the celebration of life and it directly connects me to myself(inner, spiritual self). It is the gift I've been given to share with the world.

- Would you like to say something to your fans?
Well, as I thought about how to answer this question I was overcome with emotion and a very deep sense of gratitude. I am not ashamed to say that I am crying now as I try to express my feelings. I have been so deeply moved by the kindness and support I have received from my fans. You should know that I am deeply moved by "any" expression of love by anyone to anyone. When that love is directed at me I lose it. I don't how I'll ever bet through a live show :-)

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Discography

Izzy James- A Call To Conscience ( 2007)

	1		It's All Right
	2		Change The World
	3		This Way
	4		Fallin' Sky
	5		Stand Up
	6		Caught Up
	7		Something
	8		Could It Be You
	9		Best We Can Do
	10		You Make Everything All Right
	11		Your Love

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