Clark James (CJ), a South Dakota native, started his drumming career early, playing local bars every weekend at 14 alongside his dad, who played bass. By 17, CJ was already on the road full-time, drumming with various bands, and on his 18th birthday, he made the big move to Nashville, Tennessee. He spent the next six years touring around the world, making music and memories with several bands.

In 2000, CJ decided to dive into Nashville’s local scene, where he did studio work, performed at iconic Lower Broadway bars, and even worked as a sound engineer at Studio Instrument Rentals (S.I.R.). In 2002, he landed a tech gig with Mercury recording artist Steve Azar, but it wasn’t long before he returned to his true love—drumming. He spent the next few years playing on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, touring across the U.S., and even performing internationally with a British pop/hip-hop group.

By 2010, CJ was back in Nashville, rejoining the country music scene, and eventually got the chance to drum for some of Motown's legendary acts. After 30+ years of living out his drumming dreams, CJ has now shifted gears to help others get started in Nashville’s music scene. Through his video-podcast *Hustlin' Nashville... The Show That Helps Musicians Get Started In Music City,* CJ shares his knowledge and passion with up-and-coming musicians. And while he’s officially off the road, you can still find him doing what he loves most—playing drums in Nashville’s local venues.