James was born in New York City in 1955 to Emma and Andrew Napoli. He was the sixth of their eight children. Emma was a career pianist, church organist and an acclaimed piano teacher. Andrew was a tenor and frequently performed with Emma. As Emma and Andrew raised their eight children in New York City during the 60s, all styles of music from opera to Jimi Hendrix could be heard—at times blaring—in the ten-person household. The music greatly influenced James who now performs classical, rock/pop and originals. 

      Emma and Andrew moved most of the family, including James, to the San Francisco area in the 70s.  James, who started piano lessons at a young age in New York, continued his music career in California obtaining a BA and MA in musical composition and teaching piano lessons, and for a few years in public schools. 

      Soon after moving to California and while he was working on his degrees and teaching, James played in all kinds of bands. Over the years he founded and fronted rock bands including Generator and Blind Justice. At times, James also played as a sideman in blues and funk bands as he never turned down a gig.  His current ensemble, Salty Dawgs, is a performance trio with voice, keyboard, sax and drums.

      James obtained a law degree during the 80s and practiced law for 31 years. Many of his clients were communities that cared for the elderly.  Indeed, Emma and Andrew happily lived their last years at a community that was a client of James’s and a place where he performed many times. 

      During the years James practiced law the music never stopped. In addition to regular club performances with various bands, James also performed both classical and rock music at numerous legal events and conferences, sometimes when he was also a featured speaker.  James' performances in elderly communities continues to be a deeply rewarding experience. 

      Now retired from law, James composes and regularly performs as a soloist and with the Salty Dawgs in the San Francisco Bay Area. You can contact James directly regarding live performances through this website.