James Emmanuel

About

James Emmanuel’s musical journey began with a gentle nudge from his father, a preacher in Nigeria, who noticed his son could use some grounding amid the challenges of youth. Joining the church gospel choir, he discovered his love for singing. At 16, after his father’s passing, he took on the responsibility of supporting his mother. Later, he set out for the UK, working as a cleaner in a sports bar, reigniting love for music. Singing while working, he soon earned the role of running the bar’s karaoke.

Edinburgh is where he found his musical home. His warm, soulful performances have become a mainstay at The Jazz Bar, and his gratitude for Edinburgh’s embrace shines in his track, “Nothing But Love For This City.” Inspired by the challenges he’s overcome and his sense of peace, he released “Lonesome Man,” a heartfelt debut that resonated far and wide, reaching U.S. radio.