BIO

Brooklyn native Marcus Paul James (MPJ) was born into a Baptist family with a Panamanian DJ father. He was raised in the church and sang in the choir loft as soon as he could stand. At home, MPJ was surrounded by the timeless voices of Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, and other R&B/Rock/Gospel greats. 

The influence of these artists etched a love for GOOD MUSIC into his soul. Songwriting because a natural progression as he committed to finding his own voice and style. Using nothing much but his soulful voice and eclectic flair, MPJ  landed roles in Tony® award-winning Broadway musicals like “RENT”, "In The Heights", NBC's "The Wiz -  LIVE", "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations". He also received a Grammy® Award for his work on FOX’s “The Greatest Showman” for which he also received an Oscar® nomination for the song “This Is Me”. MPJ was also part of Lin Manuel Miranda’s new film adaption of “In The Heights” and Netflix® ‘s “Tick Tick, Boom”. Has also been vocally featured in films “Collateral Beauty”, “Dear Evan Hansen”, and the newly released holiday film “Spirited”. 

"James aims for the stratosphere and knocks it out of the park. His voice becomes raw and earthy, seemingly detaching from his bodily form and soaring among the angels above. As they say, he takes the listener to church and gives them an essential sermon on his truth: through the struggles and heartache, he has learned who he truly is." 

-Jason Scott -PopDust 

MPJ’s first full-length album “MEANT TO BE” was released in 2010. The title track went on to chart on the UK soul charts and from that album “Wonderful Love” and “Right Now” would go on to hold 1st and 3rd on those charts for 5 consecutive weeks. He broke the mold with his latest EP "PAPER HEARTS" in collaboration with Jazz prodigy Akira Shelton and  Grammy-nominated producer Jake Birch. He really put pen to heart when releasing his latest singles “Waiting For”  and “Hey Love” which have been playlisted and charted all around the world. MPJ has worked with artists like Kesha, India Aire, Elton John, Wrable, and more.

MPJ’s music shines as the perfect balance of Soul, R&B, and popular music. A true Singer/Songwriter whose lyrics and music take your heart and ears to places few artists do. His music catalog is a true testament to his vocal versatility and writing prowess.

MUSIC VIDEOS

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