James Otto's 2010 CD, Shake What God Gave Ya. Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Nashville.
James Otto is sounding very happy-go-lucky of late, what with “Groovy Little Summer Song” putting a sunny disposition and a bit of blue-eyed soul into the beach-weather playlist.
The song is just one of a dozen tracks set for James’ next album, which is slated for release at the tail end of summer, Sept. 14. The project is titled Shake What God Gave Ya!, and it’s apparently loaded up with the same sort of R&B influences that shade “Groovy Little Summer Song” and his signature hit, “Just Got Started Lovin’ You.”
“Musically,” James notes, “I’d say I’m the love child between Ronnie Milsap and Barry White.”
That’s a piece of musical turf that puts James in pretty good company these days. Other current male country singers with soul elements in their voices include Billy Currington, Jimmy Wayne, Danny Gokey, Jerrod Niemann and Lady Antebellum’s Charles Kelley.
“Charles has a really soulful voice, man. He’s a great singer,” James says. “I’m happy to be compared with those guys.”
Lady A producer Paul Worley oversaw the sessions for Shake What God Gave Ya!, which includes an appearance by Ronnie Milsap on the album closer, “Good Things Gone Bad.”
As James gears up for the album’s release, he’s singing “Groovy Little Summer Song” on the American Ride Tour, opening for Toby Keith and Trace Adkins.
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Of all the "summer" songs out — and there seem to be a slew of them — "Groovy Little Summer Song" is my favorite. Maybe it's the "soul" connection, because I also love Danny Gokey. Will have to listen to James Otto's other songs before I decide whether to buy the single or the CD.
September 14th can not get here fast enough, I love James Otto SO much and I pray so hard that the precious beautiful sweet hearted teddy bear has himself a safe and awesome 37th birthday tomorrow!!! (big smile)
God bless you and him always!!!
Holly in East Tennessee
I'm totally enjoying James on tour with Toby Keith and Trace Adkins. He's a great talent and a nice guy. Can't wait for his new CD.
Otto's Country Soul sets the standard for others. His style is that perfect blend of Ronnie & Barry as he states. With his signature vocals and laid back style, he is sure to be a superstar soon!