Robert James

Haverhill, MA

$300+

Travels up to 90 miles

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Promotional video thumbnail 1 for Robert James

Oh! Darling

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Rock Demo

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Original Song "Save Me" Live in Nashville TN

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Looping Demo

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Overview

An acoustic singer-songwriter utilizing a pedalboard to loop live playing and simulate a full band. Nothing is pre-recorded and everything is done on the spot! Playing shows from NH to CA and ranging from 1950's to today, I specialize in "reading the crowd" to find what genre of music clicks best. From Jackie Wilson to Lizzo and everything in between, I pride my ability to choose from various artist, and the ability to play them in varying styles as well. While I personally like funk and jazz, when the booking needs dance, pop, blues, or sing along, I have the ability to adjust on the spot and cater to the needs of the moment.


Reviews

9 reviews

Small thumbnail image for reviewer Peter Q.

Peter Q.

October 12, 2025
Verified review

Robert is a Great Talent

Robert played for a couple hours at a private party and was wonderful. He had a wide range of music to offer as well as some intriguing originals. He was playing outside, in some cold weather and was a total professional. I would recommend him for your event! Thanks Robert. Maybe we'll see you next year.

Hired as: Singing Guitarist


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Lisa J.

Lisa J.

June 9, 2024
Verified review

Fantastic! Rave reviews from our party goers!

We hosted a backyard grad party for about 100 people with 4 generations. Everyone loved the music! We will definitely hire Robert James again and highly recommend!

Hired as: Guitarist, Singing Guitarist


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Samuel B.

Samuel B.

January 17, 2024
Verified review

Extremely talented and professional guitarist!

It was a pleasure and an honor to work with Robert James. I gave him a set list only about a week in advance of a live show, that mind you changed several times leading up to the performance, and he was able to execute beyond my loftiest expectations. A truly excellent guitarist and well polished professional. Responsive, prompt, reliable, collaborative, patient, very creative, great stage presence - a joy to work with!

Hired as: Guitarist


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Ellie Z.

Ellie Z.

September 27, 2023
Verified review

Labor Day Party

Robert was awesome at our community party. He played outside in the heat and was very professional and catered to the audience! 2nd time booking him!

Hired as: Singing Guitarist


Small thumbnail image for reviewer Ellie Z.

Ellie Z.

September 29, 2022
Verified review

Retirement Home Party

Robert was amazing! The residents loved his performance and are asking to have him back. He came with plenty of time to set-up and played a full two hour show for our group. It was a pleasure to have him here :)

Hired as: Singing Guitarist

Small thumbnail image for Robert James

Robert James

Thank you so much for your positive review! It was a pleasure to perform for the residents, and thank you for the exceptional communication!

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Booking information

Price range: $300+

Languages: English

Gig length: 60 - 240 minutes

What to expect

I will provide up to 4 hours of entertainment as a solo acoustic guitarist/singer. playing covers ranging from the 1950s to today, I specialize in reading the crowd to play what better suits the patrons. From a pure rock show to a jazzy laid-back show, I always cater to what works. I have been known to play Babyshark when there are a plethora of children (but I do not play it when there is not!), and take as many requests I can. I have a professional attitude, always show up on time, and check in on my breaks to ensure everything is going as you desire.

About

Rob originally started his musical career as an attempt to impress a family member. While quickly moving on from this, his stubbornness to learn was what kept and grew his momentum. With a dollar store guitar that was never once in tune, Rob would watch and rewatch a “Complete Idiots Guide to Guitar” while following along. His redemption of the “Row Row Row Your Boat” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb” did not sound remotely close to the videos, but his stubbornness held its strength over reality, and Rob learned how to move his fingers to what he swore was what the video instructed. After months of dissonant “chords”, he was asked to play a friend’s guitar while at a social gathering. Despite profusely declining the invite, peer pressure took hold. Finally having a guitar that was properly tuned in his hands, Rob was amazed at what he could do! Beautiful chords flowing from one to the next, all cohesive and most of all, encouraging.

Rob went out and bought a guitar tuner.

Years of various collaborations with musicians, teaching students music and to play the guitar, taking lessons for drums, bass, guitar, saxophone and keyboard, Rob has had a colorful music career to date. Playing hundreds (likely thousands, but as time unfolds, it becomes harder to keep a count!) of shows ranging from California to New Hampshire, he has learned how to read a crowd and adjust to the appropriate feeling for his audience.

Now as a multi-instrumentalist, Rob is working on expanding his presence in his new area and offering his services to all those who value good music!

Additional booking notes

I require cover from the weather when applicable and an electrical outlet.

Drinks are encouraged but not required!

Past booked events

October 2025

11

Saturday

Cocktail Party

6:00pm - 8:30pm

Sunapee, NH

July 2024

06

Saturday

Restaurant/Bar Event

9:00am - 12:00pm

Amesbury, MA

June 2024

08

Saturday

Graduation

6:00pm - 9:00pm

Bedford, NH

October 2023

14

Saturday

Children’s Birthday Party

6:00pm - 8:30pm

Londonderry, NH

September 2023

05

Tuesday

Retirement Community Event

1:30pm - 2:30pm

Newburyport, MA

September 2022

28

Wednesday

Retirement Community Event

1:00pm - 3:00pm

Newburyport, MA

August 2022

27

Saturday

Concert

9:00pm - 11:00pm

Somerville, MA

July 2022

30

Saturday

Graduation

1:30pm - 3:30pm

Plaistow, NH

29

Friday

Cocktail Party

3:00pm - 6:00pm

Salem, NH

17

Sunday

Cocktail Party

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Haverhill, MA

16

Saturday

Children’s Birthday Party

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Rye, NH

Influences and inspiration

John Mayer
Dave Mathews
Blues
Jazz
Rock

Setup requirements

Electrical Outlet

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