Marcus Paul James

Brooklyn native Marcus Paul James (MPJ) was born into a Baptist family with a Panamanian DJ father. He was raised in the church and singing in the choir loft as soon as he could stand. At home, MPJ was surrounded by the timeless voices of Luther Vandross, Stevie Wonder, Teddy P, and other R&B greats.

The influence of these artists etched love for R&B, soul, gospel and tender ballads into his soul. Growing as a singer/songwriter and with a love for new music and experiences in his blood, using nothing but his soulful voice and eclectic flair landed him roles award-winning musical projects like “RENT”, "In The Heights", NBC's "The Wiz LIVE" and currently in the Tony award-winning hit "Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations". He also received a GRAMMY Win and Oscar nomination for his work on “The Greatest Showman” and is apart of Lin Manuel Miranda’s new film adaption of “In The Heights”

In 2010 he released his first full-length album “MEANT TO BE” under indie label Silver Towers Productions, in which the title track went on to chart on the UK soul charts. From that album “Wonderful Love” and “Right Now” would go to hold 1st and 3rd on those charts for 5 consecutive weeks. He broke the mold with his latest EP "PAPER HEARTS" with collaboration with Jazz prodigy Akira Shelton and Grammy-nominated producer Jake Birch. MPJ has worked with artists like Kesha, India Aire, Elton John, newcomer Wrable, and more.