Long before R&B crooners like John Legend, Brian McKnight and Babyface, was the iconic singer/songwriter/producer James Ingram. The well-respected artist known for his easy listening hits “One Hundred Ways,” and number one hits – duet with Patti Austin, 1983’s “Baby, Come to Me” and his 1990 solo “I Don’t Have the Heart” will perform a benefit concert at Laguna Beach’s Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Master on August 24.
The soulful singer started his career performing with the short-lived band Revelation Funk in the early 70s. During the early 80s Ingram earned triple Grammy nominations and won the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his work on “One Hundred Ways.” In 1985, he won Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group for “Yah Mo B There”, a duet with Michael McDonald.
Being an 80s kid, I remember my mom loved listening to ballads. She enjoyed especially going to bed at night and leaving her favorite FM station on until she fell asleep. When I stayed in her room, I recall how the station would play a lot of Ingram songs during those days with dedication from listeners. These are the memories that influence me to love James Ingram’s music today.
Some of his notable hits that are my favorites are “Just Once,” “How Do you Keep the Music Playing,” “One Hundred Ways,” and of course “Somewhere Out There,” the theme song from Steven Spielberg’s movie, “ An American Tail.” He also co-wrote with Quincy Jones, the top 10 hit P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing), performed by the late Michael Jackson from his “Thriller” album. The Ohio native also played piano for the legendary Ray Charles recording studio sessions.
Described as one of the most passionate soul crooners, his music never gets old, never goes out of style and gives a lasting impression to your heart. Whether you’re visiting a piano bar/lounge or chillin’ out on your bed or having a romantic dinner with your significant other, his songs always set the mood. His voice is so rich and breathtaking, that sometimes while listening to his songs you can’t help get emotional and teary-eyed.
If you like inspirational, ballad, R&B, soul or just simply soothing feel good music, see him at The Pageant of the Master Benefit Concert, Laguna Beach on August 24.