James Genus Concerts

Experience James Genus

James Genus is a highly respected American bassist, composer, and arranger whose career spans diverse genres including jazz, funk, and pop. Born in 1958, he initially gained prominence as a member of the influential jazz fusion group Steps Ahead throughout the 1980s, contributing significantly to albums like *Steps Ahead* (1983) and *Magnetic North* (1986).

Genus’s playing is characterized by a virtuosic technique, melodic sensitivity, and a distinctive tone often achieved through fretless bass. He’s renowned for his innovative use of harmonics and rhythmic complexity. Beyond Steps Ahead, he’s collaborated extensively with artists like Herbie Hancock (touring and recording on *River: The Joni Letters* which won a Grammy Award in 2008), Michael Brecker, and Sting.

He's released several acclaimed solo albums showcasing his compositional skills, including *Modern Love* (1999) and *The Blue Year* (2006). Genus also maintains an active career in film scoring and continues to perform and teach internationally.