Blunt, James (1977- )

English musician, singer and songwriter. He shot to stardom in the UK and continental Europe with his number one hit single ‘You're Beautiful’ off his debut album Back to Bedlam (2004). He is known for his mix of rock, soul, and jazz, and his skill in playing a wide range of instruments in the guitar and piano families.

Other singles include his debut ‘High’ (2004), which became a top ten hit in Italy after appearing in a Vodafone advertisement there, and ‘Wiseman’ (2005). His music has been compared with Elton John, with whom he has toured.

The son of a senior British Army officer, he was born at an army hospital at Tidworth, Wiltshire, England. He went to Harrow School and Bristol University on an army bursary before joining the British Army in the Life Guards regiment for a required four years. His experiences as a captain in the NATO peacekeeping forces in Kosovo inspired his single ‘No Bravery’. He later served in Switzerland as captain of the Household Cavalry downhill ski team and participated in the funeral services of the Queen Mother in 2002. After leaving the army, he began working with former 4 Non Blondes lead vocalist Linda Perry (1965- ), a songwriter (for singers including Pink and Christina Aguilera) and producer who signed him to her Custard Records label.