Dara James
and the Soul Disciples
Dara James (Guitar, Vocals),
Eric Franzen (Hammond Organ),
and Jeff Louderback (Drums) .
Dara James
Award-winning singer-songwriter Dara James started his professional gigging music career at only 11 years of age playing harmonica for the popular New River Valley-based band, Upland Express. Playing alongside his father and twin brothers, Barry and Garry Collins, Dara travelled with Upland Express all around Virginia for almost 10 years, opening up for national acts and recording a CD together when Dara was only 13 years old. Dara recorded his first solo album when he was 17.
Accolades
“Over the years, I have seen a lot of music in my long strange trip, and have rarely ever heard such a powerful musician as Dara James. He has played at Brewing Tree since we opened and is considered family at the brewery. For such a young artist, he has an 'old soul' that shines like a warm summer day when he sings the blues.”
—Mark Thompson, Owner/Brewing Tree Farm Brewery
“There are musicians who are talented, then there are the ones who are anointed. Dara is gifted beyond measure and truly a pleasure to listen to. His music is soulful and hauntingly beautiful. His lyrics are brilliant. His voice tugs at your heartstrings. If you love blues, you’ll love Dara. If you don’t, he’ll turn you into a fan!”
—Joy Bagby, Fan