Rick James
Rick James (born James Ambrose Johnson, Jr. February 1, 1948 – August 6, 2004) was an American musician and composer.
Influenced by singers such as Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson, James started singing in doo-wop and R&B groups as a teenager in his hometown of Buffalo, New York. After entering the U.S. Navy to avoid being drafted, he deserted to Toronto, Canada, where he formed the rock and R&B band The Mynah Birds, whose lineup included Bruce Palmer, Neil Young, and Nick St. Nicholas. James' tenure with the group was interrupted after military authorities discovered his whereabouts while he was in recording sessions with Motown Records in 1966. James served a one-year prison term related to the draft charges. Upon release, James moved to California to resume his career with the Mynah Birds. After that group disbanded, James began a series of rock bands in California, and worked for Motown as a songwriter under the alias "Ricky Matthews."
Tracks recently played on Rocket 103.7
-
Give It To Me Baby
-
Super Freak
Search
Get the Rocket 103.7 Apps!
Take Lompoc's Greatest Hit with you wherever you go!
Today's Weather
-
Lompoc, CaliforniaSunny intervals
High: 72°F | Low: 41°F
Events
-
Trivia at Cold Coast BreweryHead Games live multi-media trivia Tuesday at 7pm Free to play, win prizes Teams up to 6 players Food by Kekas
at Cold Coast Brewery Parking Lot -
Food Truck Friday Lompoc
Every Friday local food trucks join to bring great food and good vibes!
at Lompoc Civic Center