Pioneering house music vocalist and producer, Robert James emerged from the Chicago house scene in the mid-1980s, collaborating closely with legendary producer Larry Heard. As a founding member of Fingers Inc. alongside Ron Wilson, James helped shape the sound of deep house during electronic music's formative years. His distinctive vocal presence became a signature element of the genre, bringing soulful expressiveness to the dancefloor.
James's collaborative work with house icons Frankie Knuckles and Satoshi Tomiie produced the enduring track "Tears," a standout moment in his career. His 1990 debut solo album *Rhythms In Me* showcased his versatility as both vocalist and producer, cementing his role as a key figure in house music's development. Today, James continues to shape the genre through his label Musical Directions, supporting emerging talent while maintaining his presence as a respected voice in electronic music.