Dillon James Shares Major Label Debut Track

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Pictured (L-R): The Core’s Chief Zaruk and Tracy Martin, UMG Nashville’s Cindy Mabe, Dillon James, The Core’s Taylor Manns and Simon Tikhman. Photo: Chris Hollo

California-born, singer-songwriter Dillon James has released his major label debut single, “Walking Man.”

The song, produced by Paul DiGiovanni and Paul Sikes, was penned by James with Sikes and Paul Wrock. An autobiographical introduction to James, the track is the first new music from the artist since his signing to Buena Vista Records/UMG Nashville/19 Recordings.

Born and raised in Bakersfield, California, James was influenced by the city’s blend of rock and country from an early age, picking up a guitar for the first time at age 10. He began writing songs as a teen, and with inspiration from local heroes Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, James developed the country-rock vocals and storytelling that would define his own sound.

After winning several competitions and a brief stint working as an actor in Los Angeles, James entered a turbulent period of substance abuse and homelessness. During this painful time, he realized that if he could heal himself and achieve his lifelong dream of becoming a singer-songwriter, he could become a living testament to others as well. He accomplished his goal and moved to Nashville to live out his dream.

“Dillon is going to leave an indelible fingerprint on country music,” shares UMG Nashville Chair & CEO, Cindy Mabe. “His purpose and vision is to share his fiery lyrics and his raw gritty sound infused with his life’s journey with the world, bringing in his story of loss, hope, faith and redemption to country music. I’m so proud to add Dillon to our UMGN family.”

James is managed by The Core Entertainment.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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