Biography
Timmins Ontario was the setting to where it all began for Marven James. His parents, a Francophone father from Quebec and an Italian mother from Timmins, provided the backdrop for Marven's love of music during his early years. Marven grew up surrounded by a variety of music genres which he later drew on for his inspiration. He mastered the art of drumming and played with many local rock bands where he would also have an opportunity to test his vocals.
ln the year 2000, Marven put his drum kit away and focused on developing his career as a professional singer. His musical style was greatly influenced by the sound of New Country music performed by Alan Jackson and Brooks and Dunn. He was also drawn to the more traditional country music and found inspiration by listening to Bobby Bare and Marty Robbins. Marven wanted to hone his vocal abilities and took singing lessons at the "Institut de Developpement Vocal Integral de Montreal (IDIVM) and took advantage of participating in many different singing contests in the Montreal area.
These contests provided him with an opportunity to perform in larger concert venues in the province of Quebec namely the Metropolis, the Capitol and the Palace Arvida in Jonquiere.
ln 2005, he launched his first album consisting of songs which he personally selected because of their soulful and heartfelt messages.
It was in 2006 when his great adventure began. He teamed up with Dave Frolick, songwriter and creative director of Frozen North Music based in Oshawa Ontario. Both Dave and Marven collaborated on the production of a second album featuring only original material. During this endeavour, Marven knew that he had to find the right sound to further enhance the quality and authenticity of the songs. He chose to record his album in the heart of country music, "Nashville" Tennessee.
Marven set out for Nashville in September 2007, where he had the opportunity to record his album at the infamous Bayou Recording Studio and subsequently worked with George Clinton, sound engineer and co-owner of Bayou Recording. George Clinton is well known in the music industry having worked with artists such as Martina McBride, Alabama and Willie Nelson, to name a few. Marven, along with 7 outstanding studio musicians completed the task of recording his songs after 3 long days.
The result: The Nashville Sounds of Marven James. Included in the album are 8 original songs with styles ranging from country, folk and rock: As Bubbles Dance, Memories of You, When you left me in Georgia, Daddy must be in Heaven, Runaway Angel, Little Angels, Runnin' with my Heart and Dave's Backyard.
Marven has dedicated this album to all of his fans and to all who have supported him "No Matter What".