James Brandon Lewis embodies the restless energy of an artist constantly seeking new horizons. While he carries an air of youthful wisdom, his journey is defined by continuous exploration—a winding path that has taken him from the heart of Buffalo, New York, to the vibrant, unpredictable landscapes of international art and music.
Born into a lineage connected to ministry, Lewis’s early life was rooted in Buffalo before he pursued higher education at Howard University. This foundation provided the groundwork for a life spent navigating diverse cultural waters.
His artistic curiosity soon led him away from traditional paths. After graduating in 2006, Lewis traded the familiar setting for Colorado, immersing himself in the world of gospel music and cultivating a unique perspective on sound.
The next major pivot came when he began studying at CalArts in 2010. This was more than just an academic pursuit; it was an apprenticeship in avant-garde expression, where he studied alongside titans of contemporary music, including Wadada Leo Smith and Charlie Haden. During this period of intense creative development, Lewis released his independent album, Moments.
The journey didn’t pause there. Seeking deeper sonic connections, Lewis moved to New York City, where he further honed his craft by collaborating with some of the most influential figures in modern improvisation and composition. He worked alongside artists such as Matthew Shipp, William Parker, and Gerald Cleaver.
This intensive collaboration resulted in another notable release, Divine Travels, in 2014. Lewis’s career is not defined by staying put; rather, it is a testament to an ongoing commitment to movement, constantly chasing the next creative frontier wherever it may lead him.
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Credit: Stereogum
