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When performing live, Rusty James uses an array of state of the art electronics to provide a clean and professional sound for his audience's pleasure. The Roland D5 Orchestrator is used to accompany his singing, playing of the acoustic & electric guitar, saxophone and on occasion, his electronic drum pads. The musical selections in Rusty's Repertoire include a little bit of everything from, light jazz, fusion, easy listening, special occasion, country, R & B, oldie goldies, retro dance to rock and roll.

"Diversification is the most rewarding route for me," says Rusty. "I like to perform at all types of venues and I guess that's because I love all types of musical genre's. I remember not too long ago that it was a Friday evening when I was called upon to perform my retro 70s & 80s show. It was awesome and the crowd couldn't get enough Depeche Mode, The Romantics, KC & The Sunshine Band, Soft Cell etc... The next evening, at the same location I was singing the Tennessee Waltz and a host of other classics. It too was awesome and made for a very rewarding weekend of performing."

BIOGRAPHY

It was in Grade 6 of his elementary school days that Rusty joined his first band and performed to his peers at their graduation dance. Leading the vocals and playing guitar, he remembers everyone rockin’ on to the now famous guitar riff of Deep Purple’s Smoke On the Water. Many educational and occupational experiences have passed since that special evening but the thrill of musically performing has been the one constant that remains in his heart today. Born and raised in the small town of Whitby, Rusty was the last of six children in his family. Always surrounded by the influence of music, having a father who could play a kick butt honky-tonk piano and a brother who was one of Canada’s most sought after drummer and percussionists, he had wonderful footprints to follow in.

At the age of fourteen, he took on a student position at the local radio station as a Spinner. Deep in the back vault surrounded by 45s and albums, that included every type of genre, he would pick out the tunes that were requested and put them on the turntables to be heard over the airwaves. From that point on, no matter what opportunity came his way, Rusty found that his musical desires would always surface and blend into whatever venture he was involved with at that time. Blessed with an array of brilliant mentors through his scholastic days, he continued performing and improving his skills, which lead to more opportunities of playing along side some of Canada’s best.

His portfolio includes over 20 years of musical experience and service. From spinning music at your special occasion, writing jingles, studio session work involving an array of instruments, keynote speaking, Emceeing your function to live performance, your needs will be met with the highest level of enthusiasm and professionalism.