James Dunne is one of music’s most exciting and iconic new voices of outlaw country in the United Kingdom. He is channeling the darker side of country music, carrying on the torch from the weathered, authentic and unapologetic artists of old such as Hank Williams, Waylon Jennings, Marty Robbins, Jimmy Martin and Johnny Cash. Embracing honest and authentic delivery behind a simple musical composition, James delivers a raw truth in his musical storytelling with an almost nonchalant performance style which completely captivates his audience when communicating his lyrics.
Already receiving critical attention in the infancy of his music career, irrespective of his troubadour wildcard reputation, James’ achievements have led to an extensive portfolio or work.
October 2022 saw the release of the army veteran’s debut single ‘Duty’ which received immediate acclaim among national and international reviewers and radio stations and captured the undivided attention of the country music scene.
The popularity of ‘Duty’ led to the release of James’ debut EP ‘Black Train’ in 2023 which spent three weeks in the global Amazon Music Hot New Country Release chart, holding a top 30 position where his follow up single ‘Black Train’ was the title track. This saw invitations to perform at events hosted by the British Country Music Association (BCMA), feature as the guest veteran on a Help For Heroes charity single, secure performances at various prestigious music festivals (C2C, Rock ‘n’ Ribs, Rockin’ The Country, Country on the Coast, Talent Banq Summer Stage), high street businesses, private corporate events and country music award ceremonies including support to various American touring artists. On a continued uphill trajectory, James secured a monthly Country Music Residency at the iconic Boogaloo in London which showcases breakthrough country, blues and bluegrass artists.
As a Maverick Magazine favourite, James received a 9/10 review rating for the EP ‘Black Train’ with extensive features within the publication through 2023/2024, with editor Zoe Hodges printing “James Dunne is quickly becoming one of my favourite UK country artists”.
Continued support and compliments have come from the likes of Ryan Necci of the Buffalo Gospel and Black Top Mojo, where he has caught the attention of some of the most influential artists in the American country music scene.
Most recently, James was extended an invitation to attend country music legend Alan Cackett’s Pickin’ Party, surrounded by some of country music’s most influential musicians and artists spanning the last fifty years.
Speaking about his debut performance at C2C Country To Country, James said: “Performing at the O2 as part of C2C is something I’m incredibly proud of and I’m humbled to be part of such an iconic event and to share my music with people on a large scale representing an area of Country music close to my heart.” (Artist card attached should you wish to use as a photo)
