James, the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Nagar Baul, formerly known as Feelings, has been the embodiment of music itself

Entertainment Desk:

Faruq Mahfuz Anam James, affectionately known as Guru, is not merely a name but an indelible mark on the canvas of Bangladeshi music. His journey, like the melodies he crafts, is a symphony of passion, resilience, and artistic brilliance.

James, the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band Nagar Baul, formerly known as Feelings, has been the embodiment of music itself.

His journey began in the early 1980s, as he, alongside Funty, Pablo, and Swapan, breathed new life into Feelings when former members departed. Together, they ignited the local gig scene with their electric performances.

In those early days, James was hailed as “the one who can play mark knopfler with right feels.”

It wasn’t long before they ventured to Dhaka to record their debut album, “Station Road.” Although it didn’t attain immediate stardom, tracks like “Ager Jonome,” “Amai Zete Dao,” and “Rupshagor” became anthems in their own right.

It was in 1989 that James and Feelings released the game-changing album “Jail Theke Bolchhi” (words from a condemn cell). This masterpiece propelled Feelings into the mainstream alongside other giants like Souls, Feedback, and Chime.

James’s music transcends genres, from psychedelic rock to blues, and he has collaborated with an array of lyrical maestros, including Poet Shamsur Rahman, Prince Mahmud, Marjuk Rasel, Shibli, Anando and Deholovi. His melodies have been composed by luminaries like Lucky Akhand and Manam Ahmed.

In the tapestry of his musical influences, names like Jim Morrison, Mark Knopfler, and Eric Clapton shine brightly.

His discography reads like a chronicle of Bangladeshi rock, with albums like “Station Road,” “Jail theke Bolchi,” “Nogor Baul,” “Leis Fita Leis,” and “Collection of Feelings” etching their places in the annals of music history.

As the years rolled on, James embarked on a solo journey, delivering albums like “Annonna,” “Palabe Kothai,” “Dukkhini Dukkho Korona,” “Thik Achhe Bondhu,” “Ami Tomader E Lok,” “Jonota Express,” “Toofan,” and “Kal Jomuna.” He also transitioned Feelings into “Nagar Baul,” unleashing “Dushtu Cheler Dol” in 2001.

James”s magnetic aura extended beyond Bangladesh’s borders, resonating in the hearts of West Bengal’s music enthusiasts.

His rendezvous with Bollywood, starting with “Gangster” in 2005 and continuing with hits like “Bheegi Bheegi,” “Chal Chalein,” “Rishtey,” and “Alvida (Reprise),” amplified his global resonance.

In 2013, James lent his soul-stirring voice to the Hindi song “Bebasi” for the movie “Warning,” a gem cherished by his ever-growing fanbase.

Yet, even as the world celebrated his music, James remained a humble soul. His simplicity, devotion to his craft, and love for photography, especially his aspiration to capture the essence of poet Nirmalendu Goon through his lens, reveal the grounded artist behind the rockstar facade.

Recently, James surprised the world with two of his comeback singles, “I Love You” and “Shobi Bhul” after a hiatus of twelve years.

In a heartfelt statement, he expressed his gratitude to his loyal fans, promising the song, “I Love You” that resonates with his decades-long journey.

The burning question, “Why the hiatus?” remains unanswered, but as James put it, “It just happened.”

The music, like his heart, beckoned him back, and for that, his fans are eternally grateful.

James, often credited as a pioneer of “band music” in Bangladesh, is not just an artist but a testament to the ever-evolving spirit of Bangladeshi music.

He reminds us of the glorious past when albums were treasures, released in cassettes with captivating covers and posters, a stark contrast to today’s digital age.

Speaking of the “good old days,” James wistfully reminisced, “We lived through a great time; it’s sad that everything is presently digital.”

He hinted at the possibility of his new song being released in a physical format, rekindling nostalgia.

Beyond music, James’s photography has earned accolades on social media. While he cherishes it as a hobby for now, fans eagerly await the day he may decide to exhibit his captivating works.

James’s fame transcends boundaries, not only within Bangladesh but also in Bollywood, where his songs like “Bheegi Bheegi” and “Alvida” continue to mesmerize audiences across the subcontinent.

In a world that often transforms artists into legends, James remains the embodiment of simplicity, humility, and timeless music.

As he concluded his every concert with a simple “Love you all,” it echoed the love and admiration that millions hold for this musical guru.

On his 59th birthday, we salute James, the rockstar who not only graced our lives with music but also carved his place in our hearts, leaving an indelible mark for generations to come.

Happy Birthday, Guru, may your melodies continue to serenade our souls for years to come. (Collected)