JAMES TERRELL: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist, Painter

Article By: Sia Tiambi Barnes

Painter and musician, James Stephen Terrell realizes the power of self-expression. Perhaps it is because he has a Masters of Fine Arts degree from Parsons School of Design and a Masters of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, both in New York City.

Perhaps it is because he grew up in a house with a baby grand piano and art created and collected by his father, fellow painter, Rev. Dr. James E. Terrell, and his mother, Judge Mary A. Terrell. Whatever the origin, he passes his inspiration on to the students at Spingarn, a public high school in Washington, D.C. where he was born and raised and now teaches art, and in his paintings which have been showcased in New York City and D.C. at such places as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library; Howard University Gallery of Fine Art (where he received his Bachelors of Fine Arts); and the Smithsonian Anacostia Museum.

As a singer and guitar player, he’s also performed throughout New York City and D.C. at such renowned clubs as CBGB’s and Bar Nun. His paintings and his music – a fusion of reggae, folk, blues, gospel, and rock – capture a “metropolitan concrete” life. “Art is historical, so it just documents a point in time,” James says. “Whatever you’re painting has reflection on you in general and what you’re thinking about, what’s really on your mind.”

James plans to release two albums of his thoughts this year, Color of Sound and Broken Hearted. For updates on his upcoming live shows and gallery showcases, visit James online at: Myspace.com/CrucifiedToTheCrossroads.