James Manders – Guitarist, Singer, Artist

A professional working musician since 1996…

As a session guitarist and backing vocalist James has maintained a career working along side some of the greatest artists in the music industry and performed at some of the most prestigious music venues in the U.K.

Between sessions James has always been passionate about composing his own music and songs. His style  blends a healthy mix of Rock, Urban Rn’B, Latin Jazz and Soul with lyrics that are compassionate and meaningful.


Performed along side…

James will deliver whatever the session!

 

  • Mariah Carey

    ...as her UK guitarist during TV promotions 2008 & 2009
      • Rihanna

        ...as electric Guitarist for a UK TV show
          • Natalie La Rose

            ...as acoustic guitarist for Radio 1Xtra Live Lounge
              • Susan Boyle

                ... as part of her choir for a special TV show
                  • Emeli Sandé

                    ... as part of her choir for The Brit Awards 2013 performance
                      • Matthew Morrison – (Mr. Schuester from Glee)

                        ...playing electric Guitar for his UK TV appearances
                          • Craig David

                            ... playing Spanish Guitar on the Pepsi Chart Show
                              • Bastille

                                ...as backing vocalist for the Children in Need Rock 2013 performance
                                  • Krept & Konan (UK rappers)

                                    ...as electric guitarist for MTV: Live Lockdown (June 2015)
                                      • Mann (U.S Rapper)

                                        ...as acoustic guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                          • Lethal Bizzle (UK Rapper)

                                            ...as electric guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                              • Big Sean (U.S Rapper)

                                                ...as acoustic guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                                  • Kiesza

                                                    ...as acoustic guitarist for her Hideaway single UK promotions
                                                      • Fern Cotton’s BBC Radio 1 Xmas Show 2013

                                                        ...as acoustic guitarist backing The Aklass Singers
                                                          • Harry Hill’s Stars in their Eyes 2015

                                                            ...as guitarist backing the contestants
                                                              • Patti Boulaye (80’s singer)

                                                                ...as music director and guitarist for a one off show
                                                                  • The Beauty Room

                                                                    ...as acoustic guitarist for Live shows and UK promotions
                                                                      • Jhené Aiko

                                                                        ...as acoustic guitarist for UK showcase performance
                                                                          • Jake Bugg

                                                                            ...as acoustic guitarist backing Jake and The Aklass Singers
                                                                          • Mariah Carey

                                                                            ...as her UK guitarist during TV promotions 2008 & 2009
                                                                              • Rihanna

                                                                                ...as electric Guitarist for a UK TV show
                                                                                  • Natalie La Rose

                                                                                    ...as acoustic guitarist for Radio 1Xtra Live Lounge
                                                                                      • Susan Boyle

                                                                                        ... as part of her choir for a special TV show
                                                                                          • Emeli Sandé

                                                                                            ... as part of her choir for The Brit Awards 2013 performance
                                                                                              • Matthew Morrison – (Mr. Schuester from Glee)

                                                                                                ...playing electric Guitar for his UK TV appearances
                                                                                                  • Craig David

                                                                                                    ... playing Spanish Guitar on the Pepsi Chart Show
                                                                                                      • Bastille

                                                                                                        ...as backing vocalist for the Children in Need Rock 2013 performance
                                                                                                          • Krept & Konan (UK rappers)

                                                                                                            ...as electric guitarist for MTV: Live Lockdown (June 2015)
                                                                                                              • Mann (U.S Rapper)

                                                                                                                ...as acoustic guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                                                                                                  • Lethal Bizzle (UK Rapper)

                                                                                                                    ...as electric guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                                                                                                      • Big Sean (U.S Rapper)

                                                                                                                        ...as acoustic guitarist - performing on BBC Radio 1xtra Live Lounge
                                                                                                                          • Kiesza

                                                                                                                            ...as acoustic guitarist for her Hideaway single UK promotions
                                                                                                                              • Fern Cotton’s BBC Radio 1 Xmas Show 2013

                                                                                                                                ...as acoustic guitarist backing The Aklass Singers
                                                                                                                                  • Harry Hill’s Stars in their Eyes 2015

                                                                                                                                    ...as guitarist backing the contestants
                                                                                                                                      • Patti Boulaye (80’s singer)

                                                                                                                                        ...as music director and guitarist for a one off show
                                                                                                                                          • The Beauty Room

                                                                                                                                            ...as acoustic guitarist for Live shows and UK promotions
                                                                                                                                              • Jhené Aiko

                                                                                                                                                ...as acoustic guitarist for UK showcase performance
                                                                                                                                                  • Jake Bugg

                                                                                                                                                    ...as acoustic guitarist backing Jake and The Aklass Singers

                                                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                  Taylor
                                                                                                                                                  Fender
                                                                                                                                                  Sennheiser
                                                                                                                                                  Mi

                                                                                                                                                  Skills

                                                                                                                                                  • Electric Guitarist: all styles
                                                                                                                                                  • Acoustic Guitarist: Spanish, Classical, Pop and finger style
                                                                                                                                                  • Vocalist: Lead & Backing Vocalist
                                                                                                                                                  • Studio: recording, producing, programming, mixing and arranging
                                                                                                                                                  • Band Leader: organisation and music directing
                                                                                                                                                  • Guitar Tutor: Classical / Electric Guitar and Bass
                                                                                                                                                  • Music Tutor: composition and Theory
                                                                                                                                                  • Director: head of Guitar in Schools

                                                                                                                                                  Testimonials

                                                                                                                                                      • “I have worked alongside James for years.. he is an exceptionally musical, and creative guitarist, and always a pleasure to work with…”

                                                                                                                                                        Jack Vasiliou - Session Vocalist (Emeli Sandé, Ed Sheeran, The Killers)
                                                                                                                                                          • “Great guitarist”

                                                                                                                                                            Liam Joseph - Session Bass player (Lethal Bizzle)
                                                                                                                                                              • “James Manders is a formidable guitarist and I have had the pleasure of working with him on many occasions. He is also one of the most reliable and professional musicians I know.”

                                                                                                                                                                Troy Miller - Music Producer & Session Drummer (Laura Mvula, Amy Winehouse, Rebecca Ferguson)
                                                                                                                                                                  • “He is very supportive in the studio and his positive personality creates a great atmosphere and makes other musicians feel at ease. It is joy to work with James.”

                                                                                                                                                                    Raoul Brand – Sound Designer and Music Producer
                                                                                                                                                                      • “A compelling performer, exceptional guitarist and mature songwriter combines strong distinct melodies wrapped up in warmth and emotion”.

                                                                                                                                                                        Stuart Robb - (Managing Director) Jam Central Records
                                                                                                                                                                          • “I had the pleasure of working with James when he played guitar for me at the Lorraine Kelly ITV Party. He is very professional, has a great feel and an extensive knowledge of music and his instrument. He made performing much easier as I could totally reply on him and his playing. Fantastic guy!”

                                                                                                                                                                            Ashton Miranda – Session Vocalist and Pianist (Ed Sheeran, Kiesza)
                                                                                                                                                                              • “James is the musical guru who provides definition to the songs that I’ve written.”

                                                                                                                                                                                Chris Bradford – Songwriter & author
                                                                                                                                                                                  • “…He is reliable, easy going, lovely to work with and most importantly, a great guitarist”.

                                                                                                                                                                                    Emily Tomlins - The Spotlight Band
                                                                                                                                                                                      • “…His number is in my book and will be called upon without hesitation, a valued musician”.

                                                                                                                                                                                        Lee C Buckingham - Who’s Got The Dog
                                                                                                                                                                                          • “…exceptionally professional, very easy to work with, smartly dressed and an amazingly versatile player”

                                                                                                                                                                                            Neil Williams - Music Director
                                                                                                                                                                                              • “I am very grateful to know such a highly reliable, versatile player who has added a lush colourful depth to many of my productions”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                Charlie Wood - Composer & Music Producer
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “James’s Technical ability and very calm attitude displays confidence and professionalism to perform on demand and sets a consistently high standard”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                    Larry Field - Musical Director
                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “An extremely talented guitarist with great stage presence, I highly recommend him”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                        Paul Ashton - Band Leader
                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “James is great to work with and always comes up with the goods in a professional manner. He particularly excels on the acoustic and plays an integral part in our live band line up. He’s also a bloody nice guy and a lot of fun too.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                            Jinadu - The Beauty Room
                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “…He set the tone for the rest of the show with warm lyrics to uplift the soul!”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                Dee Nyoni - Gospel in the Sun
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “…he has a melodic approach to phrasing that reminds me more of a Miles Davis or Stan Getz. His lines are always thoughtful, musical and interesting.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Haydn Callow – Session Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “I’ve used James as a session guitarist for several years on different projects because he is able to play all styles, work quickly and be creative under pressure.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Carole King – Music Director
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “Playing with James is great! He is very versatile and plays with nice feel.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Nathan Allen – Session Drummer (Amy Winehouse)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “James is the ideal session guitarist, technically secure, quick on the up take, reliable and has outstanding musicality and great tone”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Tim Oliver – Music Producer & Session Musician (Boy George, Lady Gaga, Pixie Lott )
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “James is an excellent engineer as well as a talented musician. I’ve heard his own recordings and he’s inspirational.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Danny Paradise – world renowned yoga teacher & artist
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “Working with James guaranties professionalism, enthusiasm, passion and very high quality, whether its playing live, recording, composing and producing or teaching. James is an absolute joy to work with and is always my first thought when I need a guitarist.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Oli Baxendale – Professional Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “He is a highly skilled, and extremely talented guitarist. He is always organised, prepared and professional.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Tasoulla Nicola – professional vocalist and songwriter
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “James is a great musician who is always creative, versatile, conscientious and hardworking.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Darren Ashford – Session Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “James is a talented guitarist who i have worked with on several projects including, Radio1 live lounge with US rapper Mann.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Jennifer La Touche – Professional Vocalist
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “As a band leader, he has communicated every detail of the job/gig efficiently and effectively, making the experience very easy on everyone involved.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Tiernan Godel – Session Musician
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “He brought the best from his professional career into the classroom and really inspired the next generation of young musicians.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Steven Sammut - Director of The Rock and Pop Foundation
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “On the occasions that James has played with us, often at short notice, he has always been highly professional and well rehearsed with solid knowledge of the material. We know with James we’re getting a top player who is both reliable and a nice guy to boot.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Darren Michael – Vocalist & Bass Player

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “I have worked alongside James for years.. he is an exceptionally musical, and creative guitarist, and always a pleasure to work with…”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Jack Vasiliou - Session Vocalist (Emeli Sandé, Ed Sheeran, The Killers)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “Great guitarist”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Liam Joseph - Session Bass player (Lethal Bizzle)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “James Manders is a formidable guitarist and I have had the pleasure of working with him on many occasions. He is also one of the most reliable and professional musicians I know.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Troy Miller - Music Producer & Session Drummer (Laura Mvula, Amy Winehouse, Rebecca Ferguson)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “He is very supportive in the studio and his positive personality creates a great atmosphere and makes other musicians feel at ease. It is joy to work with James.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Raoul Brand – Sound Designer and Music Producer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “A compelling performer, exceptional guitarist and mature songwriter combines strong distinct melodies wrapped up in warmth and emotion”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Stuart Robb - (Managing Director) Jam Central Records
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “I had the pleasure of working with James when he played guitar for me at the Lorraine Kelly ITV Party. He is very professional, has a great feel and an extensive knowledge of music and his instrument. He made performing much easier as I could totally reply on him and his playing. Fantastic guy!”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Ashton Miranda – Session Vocalist and Pianist (Ed Sheeran, Kiesza)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “James is the musical guru who provides definition to the songs that I’ve written.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Chris Bradford – Songwriter & author
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “…He is reliable, easy going, lovely to work with and most importantly, a great guitarist”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Emily Tomlins - The Spotlight Band
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “…His number is in my book and will be called upon without hesitation, a valued musician”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Lee C Buckingham - Who’s Got The Dog
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “…exceptionally professional, very easy to work with, smartly dressed and an amazingly versatile player”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Neil Williams - Music Director
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “I am very grateful to know such a highly reliable, versatile player who has added a lush colourful depth to many of my productions”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Charlie Wood - Composer & Music Producer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “James’s Technical ability and very calm attitude displays confidence and professionalism to perform on demand and sets a consistently high standard”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Larry Field - Musical Director
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “An extremely talented guitarist with great stage presence, I highly recommend him”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Paul Ashton - Band Leader
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “James is great to work with and always comes up with the goods in a professional manner. He particularly excels on the acoustic and plays an integral part in our live band line up. He’s also a bloody nice guy and a lot of fun too.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Jinadu - The Beauty Room
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “…He set the tone for the rest of the show with warm lyrics to uplift the soul!”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Dee Nyoni - Gospel in the Sun
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “…he has a melodic approach to phrasing that reminds me more of a Miles Davis or Stan Getz. His lines are always thoughtful, musical and interesting.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Haydn Callow – Session Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “I’ve used James as a session guitarist for several years on different projects because he is able to play all styles, work quickly and be creative under pressure.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Carole King – Music Director
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “Playing with James is great! He is very versatile and plays with nice feel.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Nathan Allen – Session Drummer (Amy Winehouse)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “James is the ideal session guitarist, technically secure, quick on the up take, reliable and has outstanding musicality and great tone”.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Tim Oliver – Music Producer & Session Musician (Boy George, Lady Gaga, Pixie Lott )
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “James is an excellent engineer as well as a talented musician. I’ve heard his own recordings and he’s inspirational.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Danny Paradise – world renowned yoga teacher & artist
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “Working with James guaranties professionalism, enthusiasm, passion and very high quality, whether its playing live, recording, composing and producing or teaching. James is an absolute joy to work with and is always my first thought when I need a guitarist.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Oli Baxendale – Professional Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “He is a highly skilled, and extremely talented guitarist. He is always organised, prepared and professional.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Tasoulla Nicola – professional vocalist and songwriter
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “James is a great musician who is always creative, versatile, conscientious and hardworking.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Darren Ashford – Session Drummer
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              • “James is a talented guitarist who i have worked with on several projects including, Radio1 live lounge with US rapper Mann.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Jennifer La Touche – Professional Vocalist
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  • “As a band leader, he has communicated every detail of the job/gig efficiently and effectively, making the experience very easy on everyone involved.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Tiernan Godel – Session Musician
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      • “He brought the best from his professional career into the classroom and really inspired the next generation of young musicians.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Steven Sammut - Director of The Rock and Pop Foundation
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • “On the occasions that James has played with us, often at short notice, he has always been highly professional and well rehearsed with solid knowledge of the material. We know with James we’re getting a top player who is both reliable and a nice guy to boot.”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Darren Michael – Vocalist & Bass Player

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          at your service…

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          this is what I can offer....

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Session Guitarist

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Studio sessions – Studio visits and On-line recording

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Live Performance – TV & Radio promotions

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Dep Guitarist – Covering absent guitar players at short notice for gigs and events

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Songwriter / Composer / Producer

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Co-writing songs and music with artists and lyricists

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Producing and arranging tracks in the studio

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Band Leader / Music Director

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Responsible for Developing, coordinating, and supervising musicians and music projects

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Recruits and rehearses bands and oversees the production.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Guitar Instructor

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          I have been professionally tutoring guitar and electric bass since 1998.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          For more information on my tuition please contact me via guitar in schools.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Guitars in Schools

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Live Music for Events

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          James Manders (acoustic SOLO)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          As an acoustic guitarist I perform a mixed set of Spanish & Classical Guitar pieces, Latin and Jazz and instrumental arrangements of popular Soul R’n B with a few vocal numbers thrown in too. Ideal for music during drinks receptions or a special occasion dinner

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Triology (instrumental trio)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Along with a drummer & bass player I perform guitar led instrumental arrangements of popular Jazz, Latin and Blues music plus some currant chart hits.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Ideal for music during drinks receptions or a special occasion dinner

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Living The Dream (party band)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          LIVING THE DREAM are an energetic four-piece party band that authentically perform a unique set of Classic Disco, Soul, Rock and Modern Pop.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Made up of experienced, professional musicians, LIVING THE DREAM’s superb delivery aims to create a vibrant party atmosphere and a busy dance floor.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Clients can be guaranteed a professional and slick service with live music performed by a band with passion and excellence. Ideal music for parties, corporate events, wedding receptions, special occasions and school proms.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          trilogy

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Music from James

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          James's music speaks for itself. Browse his recent works below

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Sessions

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                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          • :

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Compositions & Songs

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Bringing it Home

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Bringing it Home

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          This is where we would place a piece of material that talks about the particular piece of music. It should be short, sweet, engaging and make people want to buy it.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          We then give them buttons to the on line retailers that sell it 🙂

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          View on iTunes
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Sound in Me

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Sound in Me

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Acoustic Solo

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Connect with James

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Contact James

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Get in touch!