Erthe St. James

Erthe St. James is a rising star in the Chicago music scene, captivating audiences with his soulful vocals and genre-bending sound. A native of the city’s West Side, Erthe’s passion for music began at a young age, fueled by influences ranging from the soulful stylings of Erykah Badu and Curtis Mayfield to the introspective songwriting of James Taylor and the iconic Nina Simone.

Erthe’s musical journey wasn’t confined to Chicago. He honed his craft at Grambling State University in Louisiana, where his major in Theatre instilled a captivating stage presence that complements his powerful vocals and creates a dynamic and engaging experience for the audience.

Back in Chicago, Erthe joined forces with his band, The ErtheTones, to create a sound that transcends genre; creating a eclectic tapestry of sound and seamlessly weaving together various musical influences. Their live shows are renowned for their energy and ability to transport listeners to a world filled with soulful melodies and infectious grooves while delivering passion and technical proficiency.

His talent extends far beyond performing, encompassing the creative wellspring of songwriting and the meticulous world of music production. Erthe's ability to write his own music allows him to express his artistic vision with complete authenticity. He pours his experiences, emotions, and perspectives into his lyrics and melodies, creating a deeply personal connection with his listeners. As a producer, he takes the helm of the recording process and shapes the sonic landscape of his music.

Erthe has had the privilege of opening for some of the biggest names in the industry such as Erykah Badu, Estelle, Mali Music, Tye Tribbet, Jamison Ross, SUCH, Rudy Currency, Conya Doss and Nikki Giovanni. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped him as an artist, preparing him to take center stage and share his own unique blend of soulful music with the world.

Not just a solo artist; Erthe is a highly sought-after collaborator. Lending his vocals to a diverse range of projects for artist such as, R.O.E, Lili K., The whoEVERs?, Tovi Khali, Neak, Harold Green, Red Spot Rhythm Section and Sam Thousand. Erthe can also be seen as a member of Sam Thousand & The Soul Vortex and Harold Green’s “Flowers For The Living” collective.

In November 2023, Erthe released his debut single, “Saved By The Bell(s)”.

Erthe St. James is a name to remember; carving an impressive path for himself. He’s an artist who pushes boundaries and defies definition. With his enthralling live shows, undeniable talent, dedication and ever-evolving sound, he is poised to become a major player in the world of music, but his music isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a celebration & retrospective of life, love and the experiences that connect us.