About this Event
If it’s possible to relax into excitement—to hear color painted on sound—then experiencing James Howard live is exactly that. His guitar fills the room with an other-worldly glow: ethereal and expansive, yet grounded and earthy. It’s no surprise Howard is celebrated equally for his soulful Blues-Rock originals and his mesmerizing, layered instrumentals.
A San Francisco Bay Area native with more than 40 years on stage, James Howard delivers an electrifying live show that blends virtuoso guitar, inspirational vocals, and fearless songwriting. Drawing inspiration from legends like Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, Jeff Beck, and Pat Travers, Howard fuses traditional blues with psychedelic roots rock—seasoned with touches of Latin and jazz—to create a sound that’s uniquely his own.
His accolades speak volumes:
- Winner, Washington Blues Society Finals — 2016 & 2023
- Competitor, International Blues Challenge, Memphis, TN
- Winner, 2012 Best Blues Guitarist — Lee Ritenour’s Six String Theory Global Guitar Competition
- Semi-finalist, Jimi Hendrix Electric Guitar Competition
What critics are saying:
“What Howard can do with a guitar is remarkable… sweet and brilliant… deep in the well when it comes to guitar wizardry & creativity.” — Delta Snake Daily Blues
“A Jimi Hendrix on guitar with John Lennon’s voice and vision… a songwriter with great depth.” — Rock and Blues News
“Guitarist extraordinaire… a breathtaking exhibition… simply awesome.” — Music Connection Magazine
This special Wonder Wednesday: Encore performance is your chance to hear a master musician at the height of his powers—intimate, immersive, and unforgettable.
The College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educational institution committed to an environment free of discrimination and harassment. Questions regarding sexual harassment, discrimination and misconduct policies and filing a complaint contact the Title IX coordinator at 503.584.7323. For questions about equal employment opportunity and/or affirmative action, contact 503.399.2537. To request this publication in an alternative format, please call 503.399.5192. For disability related accommodation, please contact Student Accessibility Services at least two weeks prior to the event at 503.399.5192 (TTY/voice) or [email protected].
Box office assistance can be reached at 503-399-6980 or [email protected].
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Chemeketa Community College Theatre Auditorium, 4000 Lancaster Drive Northeast, Salem, United States
USD 17.40
