The World According To James

The history of rock music is a fascinating topic for me.  I was directly involved in this history as a professional musician from 1973 until 1991—when I had to get a real job.  As a lead singer while also the drummer, I was a rarity in the history of rock music—or any music genre for that matter.

The first drum sets—a collection of percussion instruments that could be played by one person—or kits, as they are sometimes called, appeared near the end of the 19th Century after the invention of the bass drum pedal.  Tom toms and high-hats were added around 1930.

The history of rock music begins in the mid-1950s and drums have always been an integral part of its rhythm—the relationship between music and time.  Ringo Starr was the first drummer in rock music history to achieve fame.  As time progressed many great drummers have blazed trails including my favorites: Mitch Mitchell, Don Brewer, Lenny White and Neil Peart.  But only a few drummers were also lead singers, e.g., Don Henley (with whom I played in concert); Phil Collins; Peter Hoorelbeke; and occassionally Levon Helm.   When I starting publicly singing “Manic Depression” while playing the drum parts as well at 15 years old, it became evident I had found my unique calling. And my tiny place in the history of rock music.

To learn more about my band you must visit the site of White Summer.