Bandleader Loretta Lynne James is a born performer. With over three decades of theater experience and a six-year stint as a touring stand-up comic, she's spent most of her life in front of audiences. "I grew up on the blues," the singer says. "But I fell in love that rockin' bluesy soul sound that was coming out of Memphis in the 60s and 70s." You can hear the Memphis influence in what James calls "Bluesoul," her band's roots R&B, horn-driven, rock and soul, dance-beat grooves. “Our live shows? In a word?” James laughs, “Sweaty!” The band's first CD entitled Don't Start With Me is due out in early 2011.

Ms. James can bring a five-, six- or eight-piece band to your venue, depending on your budget and needs.