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Brian JamesBritish punk rock musician, guitarist
Date of Birth: 18.02.1955
Country:  Great Britain |
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Biography of Brian James
Brian James (birth name Brian Robertson) is a British punk rock musician and guitarist. He was born in 1955 in Hammersmith, west London. James started his music career with the proto-punk band called 'London SS'.
Early Career
James played in various musical collectives of varying success. He gained recognition in the punk scene through his participation in the band 'Bastard'. Later, he worked with the group 'The Damned', in which James played a direct role in its formation.
The Damned
'The Damned' started as a trio called 'Subterraneans', which later changed its name to 'Masters of the Backside'. In 1975, Dave Vanian joined James, Rat Scabies, and Captain Sensible, and the band 'The Damned' was born. All members of the original lineup went on to have notable careers in the punk scene. Rat Scabies, also known as Chris Miller, later became a member of 'The Members'. Captain Sensible, also known as Raymond Burns, became a legendary musician with numerous solo projects. Dave Vanian, born David Letts, remained the only permanent member of 'The Damned' throughout its existence.
With 'The Damned', Brian James recorded their first album titled 'Damned, Damned, Damned', which was later referred to as the "first British punk single". The band was part of the avant-garde movement alongside the legendary 'Sex Pistols' and 'Clash'. James remained with 'The Damned' until the end of the 1970s, releasing two albums with the group.
Solo Career and Collaborations
In 1979, James released his solo album 'Ain't That a Shame', featuring drummer Stewart Copeland from 'Police'. However, the album did not meet expectations, and James decided to focus on collaborating with established bands and musicians. He had the opportunity to perform with Iggy Pop, although his name does not appear on any official studio albums. However, his name can be found on live albums.
In the 1990s, Brian James was mentioned in connection with 'The Damned' when the band gained popularity and released compilations. He worked with 'The Dripping Lips' from 1992 to 1996, and their music was said to be reminiscent of early 'The Damned'.
James composed the soundtrack for the film 'Abracadabra' in 1992 and later formed his own band called 'The Brian James Gang'. He is also known as the founder of 'The Lords of the New Church'. In 2001, he formed a supergroup called 'Mad for the Racket' with Wayne Kramer, Duff McKagan, Stewart Copeland, and Clem Burke. They released the album 'Racketeers' in the same year.
Legacy
Although Brian James had a diverse music career, his greatest success remains his involvement with 'The Damned'.
