[5][6] James' co-wrote her solo albums Candles, Songcity, Hit Factory, and That Jazz with producer Nigel Martinez.

After moving to Compton, James attended Vanguard Junior High School, where she participated in choir, chorus, and musicals including The King and I and Oklahoma!

James received her Bachelor of Science in mass communications arts, with a focus on journalism, television production, radio programming, and announcing.

While attending, James won grand prize winner First Place Best Female Solo in the Spring Sing talent contest for all four consecutive years.

[13][14] In 1976, Stevie Wonder asked James[15][9] to record "Another Star", the hit single from his album Songs in the Key of Life.

[5] In 1984, James sang vocals with Earth, Wind & Fire singer Philip Bailey on his albums Chinese Wall, featuring Phil Collins, and Triumph.

[31] James has recorded several solo albums: Hit Factory, That Jazz, Candles, Morning Glow, Win Your Love, and Songcity.

"This Lovin'" "Dukey Treats" "Everyday Hero" "I Tried to Tell You" “Say That You Will“ ”Funkin’ For The Thrill“* “I Am For Real“ “Corine“* “Pluck“ ”The Way I Feel”* “Morning Sun”* ”Don't Let Go”* “Dukey Stick”* "Kese Ye Lolo De Ye" "Contusion" "Burning Up the Carnival" "You Make Me Want to Wiggle" "Light Up the Night" * = lead vocals