James Wolff’s grandparents were refugees from 1939 Berlin. When they died he came across the programme notes of a 1930’s production of a German Musical, ‘The Threepenny Opera’. In this, Wolff found his two loves, literature and music, perfectly united by Bertolt Brecht and the composer Kurt Weil. One thing led to another, as it often does, and while living in France he was introduced to the music of Jacques Brel and Edith Piaf. Although familiar with the story telling style of Johnny Cash, Wolff appreciated other American singers many of whom had recorded covers of European artists like Nina Simone’s version of Jacques Brel’s ‘Ne Me Quittes Pas’, or Frank Sinatra’s ‘Mack The Knife’ and Tom Waits’, ‘What Keeps a Man Alive’ both from ‘The Threepenny Opera’.

An interest in cinema took Wolff to the music of Georges Delerue and the Argentinian Astor Piazzola while in the melodies of Carlos Gardel’s tango he found a sensitivity and a story in a language he didn’t even understand. Never mind. If they had a story to tell, he was happy to hear it, and it didn’t matter how they told it.

James Wolff has emerged from this pool of great singers, great writers and great composers with a unique voice and a unique talent. From the rhythms of Gardel and Piazzola to the wit of Leonard Cohen and the drama of Nick Cave, he sings songs which are equally majestic and tragic with a lyrical turn of phrase second to none.

In the summer of 2007 he performed at the iTunes festival supporting Imogen Heap at The Institute of Contemporary Arts in Pall Mall London.

He has also collaborated on a number of projects, including appearing on Peter J. Schwalm’s recent release, “Musikain” and on Leo Abraham’s forthcoming album based on the works of the American poet, Bingo Gazingo. In 2005 Wolff composed an original score for the UK premiere of ‘Molly’s Dream’, the play by Maria Irene Fornes, performed at the Battersea Arts Centre.

James Wolff currently writes, composes and performs in London.

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‘’James Wolff is a gifted writer and a compelling singer. The maturity of his songcraft is self-evident and his arrangements are intelligent and refreshingly understated. Some adventurous label should sign this guy. Purveyors of cookie-cutter pop need not apply. Wolff's music rewards the discriminating listener" - Irwin Chusid, WFMU RADIO

‘’James Wolff is a truly original talent. His music is deeply honest and affecting and, in my opinion, frequently approaches genius’’ - Leo Abrahams

"Jaques Brel and Tom Waits influenced singer-songwriter with crankily inventive arrangements and a voice who’s intonation curiously recalls Nico" – Time Out