Born and raised in southern California, Robert James, the son of a nationally renowned Opera soprano, started his Christian walk in the late 1970's at Harvest, Riverside under pastor Greg Laurie. RJ spent most of his childhood attending Lauries' church and it was there where he was introduced to the incredible music of the late Keith Green. Sometime in the summer of 1978, Keith had played a concert at Harvest where RJ's father had purchased a vinyl record of "For Him Who Has Ears To Hear." And like so many before him, RJ was hooked to the melodies, conviction, and lyrics of Green. RJ was only 7 years old. "Keith's music & lyrics challenged me through many emotions, even at a very young age. And as a mature Christian adult I really began to adopt his message into my own songwriting. I get a 'spiritual shot in the arm' every single time I hear his music ... even 20 years after his death." Although Keith's music has had an amazing impact throughout RJ's life, it was 16 years of organized baseball that demanded his focus. Fortunately, he walked away from the game in 1996 when a short stint with a minor league affiliate failed. However, it was after the tragic death of his older brother, Johnny, in September 1992 when RJ seriously sat down at the piano for the first time. Here he found a way to channel his pain & emotions by speaking to God through music. "My brother, still makes all of us cry... but while seeking God in this tragedy, there was a renewal of my spirit through my suffering." Johnny died instantly from a severe brain aneurysm. He was only 22. RJ wrote his first couple of songs in '93 and uncovered a passion for songwriting and singing that had remained dormant for so many years. He continued to write and sing, and began to share his music and ministry with others. Consumed by the love and understanding of Jesus Christ, RJ's songwriting ability matured as his heart weighed heavily to challenge others and himself to follow Christ's example. "I want to challenge the believer and encourage those that might not yet believe", he explains. His compilation of original songs encompass a wide range of themes and that give hope and encouragement, uplift the spirit, and deeply challenge one's individual walk with Christ Jesus. "I believe I had to experience many triumphs and many tragedies to know what to write, and what I think people need to hear. My prayer is that everyone will see what I know, and that we will follow Christ's example of Love." RJ continues to write new songs and plans to tour California, Washington, Arizona, and Nevada to share his ministry starting in late 2002. From the National Anthem in Major League Ballparks, to coffeehouses and other churches, RJ takes with him the message of Hope and Love, Forgiveness and Non-Judgment. RJ married his beloved wife, Jen, in 2004. They are members of Cornerstone Fellowship in Livermore, California where they both serve in church ministries. Their first child, Parker Jonathan, named after RJs brother, was born on June 11th, 2006! www.cornerstoneweb.org