Singer-songwriter Philip James or “PJ” comes from Massapequa, NY. He was raised in a tight-knit, middle-class family rooted in tradition, with several generations dedicated to military service. The youngest of four, he learned resilience early on through the affectionate but rough-and-tumble energy of his three older brothers. His oldest brother gave him his first hand-me-down guitar at 13, marking the beginning of his musical journey. That guitar sparked a fire in his soul as he taught himself to play, filling countless notebooks with lyrics and pouring hours into composing music. By 14, PJ was performing at open mic nights and playing in bands as often as he could. Music became an undeniable part of his identity. Songwriting became a fundamental part of his life.
After high school PJ followed family tradition and joined the Navy, aiming for a future in naval special forces. While undertaking the vigorous and demanding path toward becoming a Navy SEAL, Philip sustained significant orthopedic injuries that ultimately redirected him away from the special forces community. Although he was devastated, it was during his recovery that he became drawn to the role of Hospital Corpsman—the Navy’s own combat medic. He discovered that his hands were not meant to conduct warfare, but rather to sow compassion and healing. In this role, he discovered a profound love for medicine that continues to guide his life. Today, PJ is in North Carolina currently attending a Physician Assistant graduate program while remaining deeply committed to his first passion: creating music that’s raw, real, and meaningful.
Philip’s approach to music reflects the grit and authenticity of his life story. He favors honest and unfiltered content that reveals the studio’s true atmosphere of his sessions with the band as opposed to flashy video trends and gimmicky performances. A storyteller at heart, Philip blends his love for music and videography to bring listeners into his world, where every lyric and melody speaks to his life experiences and undeniably big heart. Something that all those who get to know him speak so highly of. Through medicine he serves his community, and with music he forges meaningful and deep connections with his audience.
Philip James isn’t just a musician; he’s an artist driven by hard work, honesty, and a story that transforms curious listeners into devoted fans. His work invites a deeper dive into a genuine exploration of vulnerability, strength, and the moments that define us.
