About Me

One of my fondest childhood memories is that of listening to my father play for a roomful of aunts, uncles, and assorted relatives and watching as the entire group was completely taken in by the music. Shortly thereafter when I was ten-years-old I began playing guitar, instructed by my father. He taught me how to strum, as well as teaching me my first chord - the E-chord - which quickly allowed me to play "Folsom Prison Blues." My father also passed along to what he felt was one of the most important lessons a musician must learn...rhythm. My Dad's cousin, Jimmy Cummins, taught me runs and riffs, as well as such classics as "Sleep Walk" and "Harbor Lights." Tragically, Jimmy died of a massive heart attack at the age of 42. As a result, I (around age 18) stopped playing for quite a while. Now, whenever I plays "Sleep Walk," I dedicate it to Jimmy.
In addition to my dad, there are many musical talents throughout my family. My mother has a lovely singing voice and my brother, Chris, plays guitar and harmonizes beautifully, as well as being an exceptional singer in his own right. I will never stop learning new things from my "little" brother. I jump at any opportunity to play music with Chris...whether it is playing for family at Mom and Dad's or with Chris and the other outstanding members of my band, Rave On.
In addition to Chris and I, Rave On, orginally established 5 or 6 years ago, includes bass player, Ron Riddell, and drummer, Leroy Hartman. Ron, who also plays classical guitar, and I have been friends since middle school. We became best friends - "more like brothers" - singing in our high school choir together. We eventually began performing as Bug (Ron's nickname) and Tug (My nickname given to me by my grandfather). "Bug and Tug" performed acoustically at pizza shops, talent shows, and parties, singing Everly Brothers and Simon & Garfunkel tunes. Later, when I was putting together a band for some Indiana shows, I needed a bass player and, naturally, thought of Ron. Ron didn't have a bass, so I bought him a bass and an amp and Ron was in. (Ironically, I later learned that Buddy Holly had done the exact same thing for Waylon Jennings!) Although 'Rave On' had a different drummer for the first two Indiana shows, that changed when I contacted long-time friend, Leroy, who became the band's drummer beginning with the May 31 and June 1 shows. I had played in a country-rock band with Leroy called 'Lost and Found' for several years. We also worked together as an Elvis band. With Chris, Ron, and Leroy on board (who are "three of the best people and best players I've ever known!"), Kenny James and 'Rave On' were ready to rock and roll!
Music has, obviously, always been an integral part of my life. Even early on, I always managed to work it into my daily schedule. In Indiana, for example, I worked a day job from 8AM-4:30PM, then played bar gigs at night until 2AM - came home, showered, slept (a bit), and was back up for work at 7:30AM. When I had a gig elsewhere, I'd use my vacation days. I also worked for many years at Wachala's Music Store in Indiana. When I opened my own music store in Oregon, I got invaluable pointers from the people there and was able to draw on the experience. I remember the time spent there fondly.
I am in my 11th year of performing 50's music. Although I keep up with the current waves peripherally, I try not to let today's music taint the traditional rock and roll. During my rare time-off, frequent trips to Nashville allow me the opportunity to catch up on new music. Weather permitting, I also use the time to golf as much as possible!
I see my greatest accomplishment as simply being able to perform for the last twenty years. Thanks for stopping by I look forward to seeing each and every one of you.

Thanks,

Your Buddy Kenny

Note from he Webmaster : "All of us who have heard Kenny know that he is truly a gifted performer. Kenny is able to put great talent and confidence into each show and has never blurred the fine line between self-confidence and arrogance - all evidenced by his ever-growing circle of loyal fans. We are all thankful, Kenny, that you share your many talents with us."