- Billerica, MA
- Singing Guitarist
- $200 (solo) and up with groups
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
Peter Q.
October 12, 2025Robert 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
Lisa J.
June 9, 2024Fantastic! 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
Samuel B.
January 17, 2024Extremely 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
Ellie Z.
September 27, 2023Labor 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
Ellie Z.
September 29, 2022Retirement 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
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!
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!
Services offered
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
Report Robert James
Singing Guitarist
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