Bob James
Bob James is an American jazz keyboardist, arranger, and record producer born on December 25, 1939, in Marshall, Missouri. A two-time Grammy winner, he pioneered jazz-fusion sounds blending jazz, funk, classical, and pop elements during the 1970s at Creed Taylor's CTI label. He founded the smooth jazz supergroup Fourplay and composed the iconic "Angela" theme for the TV show Taxi.?
James displayed perfect pitch from age 4 and began piano lessons young. Discovered by Quincy Jones at the 1962 Notre Dame Collegiate Jazz Festival, he released his debut album Bold Conceptions in 1963 on Mercury Records. He later worked as Sarah Vaughan's music director and producer for artists like Grover Washington Jr. at CTI.?
His 1974 solo album One launched a prolific career with over 60 albums. He founded Tappan Zee Records, scoring a gold hit with Touchdown featuring "Angela," and explored classical works like Rameau and Scarlatti albums. Collaborations include the Grammy-winning Double Vision with David Sanborn in 1985.?
Known as the "godfather of hip-hop and smooth jazz," James's tracks like "Nautilus" and "Take Me to the Mardi Gras" have been heavily sampled in hip-hop. Now in his 80s, he continues performing and evolving his sound across genres.
Sign Of The Times
Written-By – R. Temperton
5:49
A2 The Steamin' Feelin'
Written-By – R. Temperton
5:19
A3 Enchanted Forest
Written-By – B. James
5:30
B1 Unicorn
Written-By – B. James
9:00
B2 Sign Of The Times
Written-By – R. Temperton
5:35
B3 Love Power
Written-By – B. James
5:30
Label: Tappan Zee Records – FC 37495
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1981
Genre: R&B Jazz, Funk, Soul
Style: Soul-Jazz, Fusion, Jazz-Funk
Bob James' Sign of the Times (1981) is a well-regarded smooth jazz/jazz-funk album, praised for its catchy melodies, strong collaborations (especially with composer Rod Temperton on tracks like "Hypnotique"), and polished production, though some critics find it overly commercial or dated, with its strong 80s synth sound sometimes overshadowing deeper jazz elements. It earned high marks (like 5 stars from AllMusic and Rolling Stone) for its accessible fusion of funk, disco, and jazz, making it a favorite for fans of early smooth jazz, despite polarizing views on its commercialism.
The album features an elite lineup of session musicians and vocalists... Musicians: Marcus Miller (bass), Grover Washington Jr. (saxophone), Ralph MacDonald (percussion), and Eric Gale (guitar). Vocals: Features prominent backing and lead vocals from Luther Vandross, Patti Austin, and Valerie Simpson.
The album blends crossover jazz, jazz-pop, and smooth jazz, featuring synthesizers, funk rhythms, and classic jazz-fusion elements. Tracks like "Hypnotique," "That Steamin' Feelin'," and the title track are standout pieces, benefiting from Rod Temperton's pop/funk sensibility.
It received acclaim from major publications like AllMusic and Rolling Stone, but some listeners find it too commercial or sterile. Some feel the focus on commercial appeal results in generic or "soulless" music, contrasting it with James' more ambitious work. The heavy 80s synth sound can feel dated to some, even on otherwise strong compositions.
Key Tracks and Highlights:-
"Sign of the Times": The standout title track, written by Rod Temperton, is a heavy, bass-driven groove that became a staple in clubs and on urban radio.
"Hypnotique": Noted for its "eerie," atmospheric vocalese and cinematic arrangement.
"Unicorn": A nine-minute jazz fusion piece that is frequently cited as the album’s most musically ambitious track.
"The Steamin' Feelin'": A "spongy" and "synth-spiked" funk number that showcases Temperton’s signature style.
Overall, Sign of the Times is considered a classic in the smooth jazz genre, appealing to those who enjoy polished, melodic, and funk-infused jazz. While it might not satisfy hardcore jazz purists seeking complex improvisation, its strong songwriting and high production value make it a beloved record for many.