Dr. James Mason & Rhythm of Life

Introduction

James Mason is the creative genius responsible for "Rhythm of Life” one of the most important and influential jazz/funk/R&B fusion albums of the last 50 years! Named one of the "20 Essential Jazz-Fusion Records Everyone Should Own” by Discogs, “Rhythm of Life has deeply influenced multiple generations of jazz/funk/R&B musicians as well as a list of prominent radio and club DJ’s — and provided the blueprint for some of the most popular music of its genre.

Now, during the Summer of 2025, for the first time in more than 10-years, James Mason will bring a performance ensemble on the road, performing high impact extended versions of material from his “Rhythm of Life” and “Recollection Echo” albums. With extraordinary fan demand, and a list of music luminaries in attendance, each show is sure to be an exciting event providing an unforgettable evening of the jazzy & funky music that has inspired so many.

James Mason is a jazz/funk musician most famously known for his “Rhythm of Life” album.

James came of age in the early 1970’s in The Bronx NYC where his esthetic & worldview was shaped by an immersion in an eclectic social, cultural and musical stew – comprised of African American, Latinx and post-summer of love sensibilities. This may in part account for his ability to harmonize music from diverse genres into a cohesive subgenre. While musically he is known for his work with Roy Ayers' band, his solo projects, and his work with Japanese jazz/fusion notables Terumasa Hino and Masabumi Kikuchi – it is the “Rhythm of Life” album that is the remarkable story.

Album Overview

James Mason’s 1977 album, “Rhythm of Life,” stands as a jazz/funk classic that has gained a devoted cult following. Its impact extends beyond its initial release, significantly contributing to the movement known as acid jazz – and broadly influencing subsequent generations of jazz, funk, and R&B musicians. Released in 1977, “Rhythm of Life” is a sophisticated soul jazz gem. James Mason masterfully combined elements from R&B, jazz, soul, and funk to create fast-moving grooves and smooth ballads -- and features memorable synth grooves, showcasing new technology of the time. Musicians include the drumming of Narada Michael Walden, Roy Ayers bandmate Justo Almario on Saxophone, and the vocals of Clarice Taylor. Early band members Dwayne Perdue, Gene Torres, and Mustafa Khaliq Ahmed round out the ensemble. Mbewe Ninoska Escobar who coauthored several compositions performs background vocals and Roy Ayers bandmate Philip Woo provides two notable cameo performances.

Let’s explore the album’s journey and its influence on artists, DJs, and diverse regions. Released in 1977, “Rhythm of Life” is a sophisticated soul jazz gem. James Mason masterfully combined elements from R&B, jazz, soul, and funk to create fast-moving grooves and smooth ballads. The album features the vocals of Clarice Taylor and memorable synth grooves, showcasing new technology of the time.

Initial Reception and Obscurity: Upon release, the album faced a curious dilemma: Chiaroscuro, being a very small label, did not have much of a budget to promote the album. Compounding this, the music was deemed too funky for jazz stations and too jazzy for soul stations. Consequently, it faded into relative obscurity. However, its fortunes would change in the 1980s.

Revival and Influence: The UK acid jazz scene breathed new life into “Rhythm of Life.” DJs and listeners rediscovered its unique sound, catapulting it to cult status.
Notable Tracks: “Sweet Power Your Embrace”: A standout single, this track exudes an airy, funky vibe, reminiscent of Lonnie Liston Smith’s work. “Free”: Showcasing Mason’s Roy Ayers-inspired jazz funk influence. “Slick City”: A happy jazz-funk groove anchored by a smooth Rhodes keyboard.

Global Popularity Beyond the UK, “Rhythm of Life” found popularity in diverse regions. France and the Netherlands embraced its soulful vibes. Japan, in particular, developed a fervent following for Mason’s sound. Mason also has a following in Brazil, Canada and Australia.

Acid Jazz, Rare Grooves and London’s Jazz Cafe: In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, while James remained completely unaware, “Rhythm of Life”, grew in popularity, and the song “Sweet Power Your Embrace” became an anthem within the London club scene. Fans and promoters, hungry for his music sought James out, eventually resulting in his live performances at London’s Jazz Café (1996, 1997 and 2000) – which are now esteemed as legendary.

Digital Engagement: On YouTube, numerous entries feature music from the “Rhythm of Life” album, with millions of plays and likes. Spotify streams for various songs from the album have collectively reached millions of listens. In summary, “Rhythm of Life” remains a hidden gem that bridged genres and continues to inspire music lovers, DJs, and artists worldwide. Its impact endures, proving that sometimes obscurity leads to timeless influence.

Today and the 2025 Tour: Driven by the continued growth of the fan base and the increasing popularity of his music, which has extended into the street-jazz dance and boogie club culture, James has returned to his musical roots. He is preparing a band for a tour of Japan, the EU, and the UK in 2025. He will also be ‘sitting in’ for several live performances with the band Incognito in 2025. New recordings and collaborations with Incognito’s leader Bluey Maunick and Kyoto Jazz Massive leader Shuya Okina are also planned for 2025.

Advocates and DJs

Mason’s initial national exposure came as a musician touring with Roy Ayers’ in 1977. He also played guitar on Ayers “Lifeline” and “You Send Me” albums. Specific DJs who championed “Rhythm of Life” include:

Gilles Peterson BBC presenter, International DJ, Festival Impresario: A prominent figure in the acid jazz scene, Peterson championed Mason’s tracks on his influential radio shows.

Patrick Forge BBC Radio 1 & Kiss FM: As a DJ and producer, Forge continued to spin Mason’s tunes, ensuring their longevity.

Simon Harrison: His devotion to acid jazz and rare grooves kept Mason’s music alive in clubs and on the airwaves.

Shuya Okino: is a renowned Japanese DJ and musician, known for his pioneering work in the Japanese club jazz scene, his role as a founding member of Kyoto Jazz Massive, and his influential contributions as a music curator and author.

Gordon Mac MBE: Mi-Soul Radio: Gordon Mac, the founder of KISS FM and Mi-Soul Radio, is a powerful advocate for James’ work.

Trevor Nelson MBE: Kiss FM London, BBC Radio 1 & 2 notes that “’Rhythm of Life’ has stood the test of time and is still very revered by those lucky enough to have bought the original”.

Norman Jay MBE: Kiss FM London (Founding Member) also states that “One cannot overstate the importance of this album to those black music fans and record collectors alike who are fortunate enough to own a copy.”.

Jazzie B OBE: Original Funki Dred / Soul II Soul: notes that “the entire ‘Rhythm of Life’ album went on to become one of the most significant albums in the jazz/funk, acid jazz and rare grooves club scene”.

Hayden Browne aka Aitch B (HB): Original Funki Dred / Soul II Soul: states “This album has been a staple part of my dance floor musical diet ever since its original release – especially the track ‘Sweet Power Your Embrace’. I have been a regular participant in London’s underground club scene as a dancer, DJ, and performing artist. ‘Sweet Power’ has been an immensely popular and iconic element of that scene, and I deemed it worthy of being front and centre of my personal record collection”.

Discography

James’ discography includes several notable recordings:

As an Artist and Bandleader

"Rhythm of Life" by James Mason (1977) - His debut solo album, featuring tracks like “Sweet Power, Your Embrace”, “Free”, Funny Girl, and “Good Thing”.
"I Want Your Love" by James Mason Mighty Fine Records (1996) - Another track featuring his guitar, keyboard and production skills.
"Recollection Echo" by James Mason Rush Hour (2015) - A collection of his previously unreleased works, showcasing his talent as a composer, guitarist and keyboardist.
"The Dance of Life" by James Mason Rush Hour (2015) - A 12" single showcasing his musical versatility.

As a Sideman

"Lifeline" by Roy Ayers (1977) - James Mason played on the title track of this album.
“You Send Me” by Roy Ayers (1978) - James Mason also played on this album.
"Susto" by Masabumi Kikuchi (1981) - Another collaboration with James Mason on guitar, this album highlights Kikuchi's avant-garde jazz approach.
“One-Way Traveler" by Masabumi Kikuchi (1982) - James Mason plays guitar on this album, which showcases Kikuchi's fusion and jazz-funk style.
"Double Rainbow" by Terumasa Hino (1981) - This album features James Mason on guitar, along with other renowned musicians like Herbie Hancock and Harvey Mason.

Academic & Corporate Career

During the 1990’s and early 2000’s, after his initial foray into the music industry proved unsuccessful, Mason pursued a career as a corporate workforce development strategist – working at Panasonic North America and the New York Stock Exchange. He later earned an MBA from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Sociotechnical Systems from Stevens Institute of Technology. As an academic, Mason served three years as a Visiting Scholar at Cornell University's Institute for African Development, and seven years as a member of the Business Management faculty at Lesley University in Cambridge MA.